"All words are symbols that represent unspeakable realities. Which is also why words are magical." (Donald Miller tweet)

Saturday, November 14, 2015

after last night

First we were farewelling, and moving, and sleeping on a leaky air mattress, and awaiting a delayed moving truck.

And then we had no internet connection except through phones that were rapidly approaching data limits.

And then I was starting a new job, as a new pastor, at a new church, and it was a wonderful whirlwind.

So my plan today was to blog all about our first adventures in Montréal, the beautiful city to which we have moved.

--

But Paris was attacked last night, and the flags are at half-mast in this city, in support of French brothers and sisters in that one. The Boy and I stopped to pray for France, even while checking in with friends in various parts of the world.

I am sad. Horrified by last night's atrocities - but also saddened by what the future will bring. Decisions will need to be made by governments, and those decisions will have repercussions, one way or another. It's hard - impossible maybe - to defend against this enemy, without also devastating innocent people. International leaders will simplify an issue in order to explain their decisions to their people, but simplifying such a complex situation inevitably leads to mass generalizations that are unfair and inaccurate. And people are - understandably, rightfully - angry. History will pause on this moment, tracing future developments that have not yet happened.

It's easy to get overwhelmed.

I'm grateful for a faith that (hopefully) guides my own response.

Love my neighbour (and my enemy).
Fight evil.
Restore victims.
Bring hope.

If, by chance, you are local to me and looking for a place to find some hope ... my first services at Evangel Church (St. Catherine & Atwater) will be tomorrow morning. You're welcome to come; we can be first-timers together. Three options: 9:30, 10:30 or 11:30.

à bientôt, mes amis!