Friends and Neighbors, 

We keep hearing that we are living in "unprecedented times" or that we are "making history" in many areas of life—a great deal of exuberance and energy centers around politics. The experts are working hard to generate some energy and stir folks up. What does walking in Christ's way of love look like amid all this? I am reminded that the struggle with and for power is a critical part of scripture. In his time, Jesus confronted empire and power by calling people to justice, mercy, and faithfulness.

Jesus echoed the call of the Hebrew prophets who posed such questions as "What does the Lord require?" Many of you know that verse from Micah 6:8 that continues "To do justice, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God." No matter which candidate wins, St. James will continue to do these things. We do mercy as we seek to meet the immediate needs of people. We practice faithfulness when we study and pray together. and we do justice as we join with others to change the systems that leave so many people in need. Many of you have been a part of Justice Knox. We will be starting justice ministry house meetings soon.

These are the things we hold to practicing as society shifts. We walk the way of love while many voices seek to incite fear, anger, and hate. We will pray for elected officials. We will continue to feed and assist those in need. Regardless of political party, we will knock on the doors of leaders asking that they create more just policies for all citizens. In all of this, we will trust that God is with us as we seek to love God and our neighbor. I encourage you to consider carefully who you vote for. Whatever the outcome of the election, we faithfully seek and make God's kingdom known and realized.

Peace,

Fr. John Mark