Black River Falls United Methodist Church issued the following announcement on June 2

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

I sit here and write with a heavy heart. Heavy with sadness for not only George Floyd and his family and community but for those who on a daily basis experience racism in its many forms. Heavy hearted with remorse that I have taken the easy road and said "I'm not racist" and have done nothing. How many times have I looked the other way. Do I understand the pain of my brothers and sisters of color and ethnicity different from my own? No! I am guilty of not listening, not trying to understand and then not attempting to change my own habits and actions that do not show agape love and respect for my neighbor.

Does this mean that I condone the actions of the rioters? No! Some are "acting out" their pain and frustration. Others (of all color and ethnicity) are using the rioting as a cover for lawlessness and mayhem. President Trump said that we are a nation founded on the rule of law. But, I would put to you that we are a narcissistic nation that is self-centered. "I want what I want and I want it now!" And when it comes to mayhem and looting, "It's only wrong if you get caught."

So here is where I am. By nature, I am not one to march in protest of injustice though the world is full of injustice. I am not one who gets mad at the rioters, looters, and instigators of mayhem. No. Instead I have been reflecting on the Emmaus talk on "Changing our World." I can't change the world, I can't change our country; I can't change our state, county, community or even our church but I can begin to change me by allowing the Holy Spirit to work within me and through me.

Father God, we are messed up people living in a messed up world. Before you can use us to bring about justice, please begin by changing us. Renew our minds so that we have the mind and heart of Jesus Christ. May our hearts cry as his heart cried, "Father, forgive them for they know not what they do!" Then empower us as Christ-centered not self-centered disciples to walk with those who mourn. May we do no harm, do all the good we can and stay in love with You! For this I pray in Jesus' name, Amen!

Now, what about you? Do you see with the eyes of this world or has God given you new eyes? Has God been at work changing your heart? Do you have a heart of compassion for those who are crying out? Are you ready to allow God to begin changing your heart? May it be so with you and me!

In Jesus' love and care,

Pastor Wendell

Original source can be found here.