Rambling today about the unfortunate topic of violence:

• I have written before regarding violent events.
• Today, as in the past, I write from a perspective all too close.
• In the past, we’ve lamented young people both brutally murdered and casualties of street violence.
• Neither should fall under a “routine” classification.
• Many in Akron are responding to the recent, barbaric murder of an Akron teenager.
• He is the son of a local pastor.
• He is the friend of our son’s friends. People we know and love hurt with pain which will last for years.
• His name is Ethan Liming and his family and friends are devastated.
• How do we respond?
• We weep. We feel a burden, a communal burden.
• Many express outrage. No horseplay deserves a brutal response. Killers still remain at large.
• We experience an unthinkable injustice and it continues. We pray for the apprehension of those responsible.
• But that will not put a boy back in his bed at night. That won’t heal the wounds and dry the tears.
• I’ve never met his parents but that doesn’t matter. I weep for them. I can’t imagine their pain.
• Have you noticed all the customary phrases and adjectives I’ve used? I don’t have others. And, they’re true. 
• I pray for all affected. I pray for the police as they seek justice. Yes, I pray for those who did this, that somehow they would own up to their actions.
• I read in the Bible that one day Jesus will return to earth and right all wrongs. I understand that eternal life (and of course forgiveness of our sins) rests on our decision to follow Jesus (or not). I hope for true spiritual healing and I look forward to forever. I hope many will consider these realities. 
• This specific situation tears us up and causes us to cry for healing, love, and justice.
• But this specific situation comes with an acknowledgement of the reality of life in the city. Violence in our cities causes much hurt, much pain. 
• We grieve with those who grieve, pray like crazy, and support those who suffer. Let us pray for the friends and families of victims, still processing traumatic loss years after events disrupted their lives. 
• Let us respond not just in the short term. Fresh wounds demand our attention. 
• Let us continue to respond in the long term. We should consider invisible wounds which take much longer to heal. 
• For those hurting, wondering, praying, grieving, and wanting to chat, please reach out through messenger or email: burkholder.kevin@gmail.com