In Solidarity with the World

Yesterday, after the multiple terrorist attacks in Paris, I began to see French flags pop up all over Facebook, especially the ones that go over profile pictures.  Facebook was promoting them.  Somehow they rubbed me the wrong way.  I knew that my friends were expressing genuine sympathy for the people of Paris.  However, I couldn’t do it myself.  I did share a post from my church about prayers for Paris but I left it at that.

Gradually I began to understand what I was feeling.  Other people have stated it quite eloquently.  Paris was not the only place in the world to be touched by terrorist attacks yesterday.  Both Beirut and Baghdad experienced suicide bombings.  On top of that, Japan and Mexico were hit by earthquakes.  To focus on Paris did not feel right.  My heart aches for all of them.

The violence in our world seems to be increasing at an alarming rate.  Hate separates us, destroys us.  People are even blaming Muslim refugees for the terrorist attacks, a bizarre accusation since it is these extremists that the refugees are fleeing.

It is the whole world, the entire human race that needs prayer.  I have shared graphics on Facebook that reflect this.  Can we come together and support each other?  Not just the people who are like us but everybody?  I believe in a God who loves all.  Is it possible for God’s children to get along, to stop fighting, to stop killing each other?  My prayer is for peace and love for all people.  I stand in solidarity with my sisters and brothers everywhere.