The Current Newsletter
PASTOR PETERSON PONDERS
Important issues often rise to the forefront. The shooting of Mark Anthony Barmore, age 23, here in Rockford surfaces as an important issue not only because a man has been shot, but because it fuels feelings associated with a whole portfolio of injustices. I only know enough to know I don’t know enough to pontificate on this issue. I know some actions that we can undertake:
Pray for the family of Mark Anthony Barmore and those who malign the family.
Pray for Officers Oda Poole and Stan North and those who malign them.
Pray for the witnesses to the shooting
Pray for Mayor Larry Morrisey
Pray for those from the Illinois State Police who investigate the shooting.
Pray that the U.S. Department of Justice be enabled to help our community achieve greater racial justice and less unrest.
On the national level we are seeking solution to a problem that is very personal to many. How can the general public access the kind of health care currently available to the legislators who shall determine the future of health for the rest of us in our land? Again I know this problem is complex and I hesitate to venture strong opinions. I do know, however, there have been many voices who only seek to mislead.
Let’s be honest. We are the only prosperous industrial democracy that provides such minimal care to the total population. Furthermore as insurance and health care prices continue to rise, fewer people access adequate care. Many of us who have relatives or good friends in Canada know the strengths of their system and the same time any pastor worth her/his salt knows family after family in this country who simply are not securing the kind of health care they need. This is a deep injustice in our land. Pray for better days ahead. Jesus reminds us that “As much as you do it to the least of these my brothers and sisters you do it to me”.
At Creekwood we proclaim the Good News of the mercy, forgiveness, and transforming power of God. We also, as the part of the Christian movement in the world, desire to be known as those who seek justice for all. Sometimes when I have spoken of justice, I think, some hear a call for punishment of the wicked. No. We are calling for protection, care and liberation for those on the short end of fairness. We stand for Jesus and His Kingdom. “His Kingdom” simply means His rule and reign, an essential part of which demands fairness and justice for all. We stand for Jesus and Justice!
Pastors John and Ruth
Newsletter : The Current 
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