Pondering: Minneapolis: Mercy and Judgment, Rightly Ordered: A Better Way to Respond | Part 4

The how in responding is two-fold. One part is the practical component of what to do or say. The other is the ethos with which you carry out the response. It’s important to ask yourself what boundaries you are unwilling to cross.

For example, Prov 10:21 says, “The lips of the righteous nourish many.” If this is a part of your ethos, ask yourself, “Are my words intended to nourish, or am I using them for some other purpose?”

Another example from James 2:12-13, “Speak and act as those who are going to be judged by the law that gives freedom, because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment!” Note the verse doesn’t say it’s a choice between judgment and mercy; they can be married together, but ought to be rightly ordered. So, ask yourself, “Have I rightly and proportionately intertwined mercy with any judgment I’m expressing?”

Do not let the Innocence/Guilt cultural dynamic lead to a fixation on judgment and the thwarting of mercy.

What are we going to do?

• Those called to protest must do so as peacefully as possible.

• Mercy over Judgement. Real families are being ripped apart. The most significant percentage of detained immigrants are men who are often the leading income earners in immigrant families. Women and children are vulnerable.

• Be generous with your treasure, talent, and time. This is a 2 Corinthians 8-9 Macedonian opportunity for the church to prepare the gifts that are sorely needed. Donate funds to families in need or to churches on the front lines supporting families in crisis.

• U.S. citizens with brown and black skin are concerned for their safety. There is fear in going to work, school, or church, even though they are legally in the US. Many have started traveling constantly with passports. Consider carrying yours around and imagine yourself having to show it at any moment.

• Confess addictions to polarized living. Don’t give your time to argumentative rhetoric. Repent and engage with a community that broadens and deepens your perspectives.