momma didn't say anything about this

what a week.  momma never, ever, ever told me there would be days like this.  ever.  i'm not sure my momma even knew days like this existed.  multiple shootings in a few days.  2 guys i know arrested.  as i sat across from a mentor/counselor today, seeking his prayers, counsel and encouragement, while sharing my last few days, his jaw began to drop...i don't think his momma ever said anything about days like this.

the range of emotions these last few days has been training.  thank the Lord that we had 'happened' to schedule a sabbath for me today.  i've been off thinking, sleeping, reading, and praying about the things that have happened.  i've rejoiced over guys who weren't involved and mourned a bit about those who were involved.  i've tried to be a voice of encouragement to those in our community and tried to be honest with my own fears and concerns.

here's what i know though....

1. we aren't leaving.  sorry mom.  this is our community, we won't be scared away from it.  we won't worry about what will happen to us because this is not all there is.  i know there is a kingdom that is here and that is coming that shows me this way of living is passing and a kingdom of love reigns.  we're not leaving because Jesus is a beast and he's King...'nuff said.

2.  i'm still not ok with this.  i'm still not ok with young men shooting each other.  i'm still not ok with kids being left without positive male mentors, without fathers.  i talked with a guy just 2 weeks ago about his needing to be around for his daughter because she needed her dad.  his eyes filled with tears as he shared with me that he never knew his father.  then just last week he was arrested.  fatherlessness can become a nasty cycle.  we need to see some of these young men re-fathered.  and we know just  Who can do it.

here's what i need from you.  check out the B. Moore Project web-site.  Give, help us paint a new picture of manhood, help us transform our community.  second, watch this video...Odd Thomas is a beast, lives in Portland...and we need to spread this message, that God replaces and heals all that we go through.  whether we are young men without fathers or young girls with abusive fathers...God takes care of that.