Things sometimes get complicated

So there is this couple that hangs out at the local park. Well, the truth is they live there. We sometimes will talk with them when we are there and they are usually friendly. Sometimes he is not so friendly however. I have figured out that it is usually when he has had a few too many that he becomes a bit nasty.

His wife, who we all call momma, appears to have had a stroke, as she struggles to speak clearly, and has limited use of her right side. But she is always happy, and eager to say hello and have a cup of coffee with us.

But this is the thing. I have just heard that sometimes when he is drunk he beats her up. Now my first reaction quite honestly is, "if I see him lay a hand on her, I am gonna bust his head" Luckily for me, I have learned that my first reaction is usually not the one Jesus would have :) But then I think, what would Jesus do in this situation? If we stopped the violence, and then just moved on, it would continue as soon as we leave. If we call the cops and get him arrested, then a lady is all alone, and from my understanding isn't interested in being in a shelter. We don't have a room to share with her, or them right now. What do you do?

This is why I think we need the church. But not the church in its steepled, stained glass hierarchy, but in its small, communal, waiting on the Lord together kind of manifestation. Where we can wrestle with difficult situations, and listen together for the still small voice. Would love for your community to pray for ours as we strive to figure these things out.

rev