Greetings WAC Community,
Then the eyes of those who see will no longer be closed, and the ears of those who hear will listen. The mind of the rash will know and understand, and the stammering tongue will be fluent and clear. No longer will the fool be called noble nor the scoundrel be highly respected. For the fool speaks folly, his mind is busy with evil; he practices ungodliness and spreads error concerning the Lord; the hungry he leaves empty and from the thirsty he withholds water. The scoundrel’s methods are wicked. He makes up evil schemes to destroy the poor with lies, even when the plea of the needy is just. But the noble man makes noble plans, and by noble deeds he stands. – Isaiah 32:3-8
“Go and tell,” is a phrase I associate with the Easter message. Otherwise, what meaning would there be to Easter? This week I leave for Washington, DC, for the Ecumenical Advocacy Days for discussions about “Confronting Chaos; Promoting Community.” The chaos to be theologically addressed is based on Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s message about the intersection of materialism, militarism and racism. My message to you next week will come from DC. Last year I was the only one from Wyoming to attend. This year a young man is going from Laramie, thanks to a scholarship he received from the United Church of Christ.
I am looking forward to the inspiring sermons, the deep conversations and the insights I expect to experience. But what I dread are the meetings we are planning for Monday, April 24th on Capitol Hill with our Wyoming congregational delegation. I am still in the process of getting those scheduled and expect that their staff will agree to meet with us, as happened last year. This year, we are asked to talk with them about the federal budget and ask that the budget reflect priorities for the poor and most vulnerable, not only in our nation, but around the world. From the news stories about what is happening in DC and from my experience in Cheyenne with the 2017 legislative session, I have to wonder whether it will do any good.
Yet, I know we must try. We are called to, “Go and tell.” I must have faith that what is said in Isaiah 32:3-8 is true. Maybe not today; but soon. For now, I pray and prepare myself to go and tell the good news – the harvest will come for those in need. The hungry will be fed. The sick will be healed. The poor will be satisfied. Victims will be safe and secure. Water will not be withheld. I ask that eyes be opened and my words not fall on deaf ears.
I ask for your prayers this week as I seek to first learn and then to go and tell. Thanks to those who contributed toward the costs of my going to Ecumenical Advocacy Days. More is still needed to cover the travel and lodging if you are able to contribute.
Fear not. Be bold. Do justice.
Blessings,
Chesie
The Wyoming Association of Churches appreciates your many financial gifts for our justice work in Wyoming for the oppressed. Click here. Or mail your contribution to WAC, PO Box 1473, Laramie, WY 82073.