I went to Minnesota with other campus ministers for a retreat in early February. We spent much of our time talking about our work, learning some new ideas in Lutheran theology, and building connections among colleagues.
One afternoon, we left the retreat center, drove into Minneapolis and visited the memorial for Alex
Pretti. There, on the street of a typical city neighborhood, we saw mounds of flowers, photos and keepsakes along with signs expressing sorrow and support. Candles surrounded the items left in tribute and grief for Alex. As we silently made our way around the place Alex died, taking in the written and symbolic messages left by friends, family, neighbors, and strangers, it was clear that this has become a holy place. People are brokenhearted, frightened, angry, worried, and so many other emotions – and they have come together into a community that is tending each other in meaningful and world-changing ways. People are caring for their neighbors, escorting children, providing groceries and rent, observing in their neighborhoods, speaking out for justice, and lifting up their voices together.
God is there. In acts of kindness and compassion, words of love and mercy, shouts of frustration and anger, moments protecting and helping, God is there.
God inhabits broken and sorrowing places, empowering people to reach out to neighbors and strangers alike, to share hope, offer compassion, and direct rage toward hopeful possibilities for a very different future.
God shows up. In a hand relighting a candle, in a whistle or horn alerting a neighbor, in words of
encouragement, in a deep sigh of exhaustion. God shows up as communities tangibly love one
another. God shows up and fills sorrow and grief with the love of people caring for each other.
Peace,
Reflection Questions
+where have you experienced God’s presence in the midst of grief or sorrow?
+where have you been surprised to see people support each other in loss?
+how are communities knit together in a crisis?