The summer heat is intense this week. Radiating off the sidewalk, it permeates our bodies. Each step seems to take twice the effort. Dogs pant in the shade and folks fan themselves hoping for a breeze to disturb the thick air. A low rumble hints of the promise of rain. O Lord, our God, the beauty of your creation is overwhelming, and its required care daunting. Instill in us the urgency required to change the course of projected outcomes due to climate change. Embolden our witness and our actions and by your Spirit guide us into your future of healing, wholeness, and reconciliation. May the peace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with us all.

Rev. Elizabeth Kanerva, Presbiterio de Giddings-LovejoyLouis, MO