Friends,

As our nation awaits the jury’s decision in the trial of Derek Chauvin, please pray for calm and peace. We know that there will be protests, regardless of the verdict; pray that those protests will be peaceful, and pray that they will not lead to escalating violence and more deaths. My heart is heavy today as I pray for those who have lost loved ones from the recent shootings here in Austin and in Wisconsin. My heart is heavy today as I pray for those who have lost loved ones in violent altercations with police. My heart is heavy today as I pray for everyone who contemplates violence, especially gun violence, as a means to settle disputes or disagreements.

Today I pray also for the jurors who have to make difficult decisions. I pray for civic leaders who are planning for disruption and protest. I pray for those who wait for justice, and those who will feel like justice is never enough.

May we all be embraced in God’s Peace,

Pastor Jack