We looked at the idea of lament and how we as a nation and we as part of the Western church have lost the ability to communally engage in this critical form of expression. Upon some reflection I wanted to clarify a few things that I didn't feel I expressed well or clearly:

1. I failed to mention the way we as a community grieved and came together over the recent tragedy of Sergeant Owen. It was a very powerful picture of what communal lament looks like and I think it caused the beginnings of genuine shifts in police and community relationships. I mentioned 9/11 as an example of lament and I want to be sure to acknowledge that our coming together as a nation in sorrow and lament was real and sincere. I realize how complicated seasons following terrorist attacks are, including decisions that have to be made. I would be remiss if I didn't highlight the fact that I too was calling for action, retaliation and preventative measures in the weeks and months after that tragic day.

2. I truly mean no disrespect to our military nor to family members of military. For those who have lost loved ones in service or to those injured for our freedoms, I sincerely thank you for your service. Our troops are brave and honorable men and women…I know they do not create wars and unjust forms of aggression…circumstances outside of our control including policies and politicians have done that and our military is at their bidding. I'm not saying all war is unjust (or just); I'm not saying God hasn't gone before soldiers at times or protected them from danger; I'm not even saying that God can't or hasn’t used the American military to work in the world…But I did want to bring to everyone's thought process the converse reality- sometimes, what we see as good or God ordained, has been evil and destructive for those at the brunt of military actions. I do not want us to get lost in dehumanizing or minimizing the complicated effects of winning a war or setting up post in foreign lands. While we may continue to emerge victorious and protect our interests, there is often a lot of pain and heartache, devastation and loss on both sides.

3. When it comes to personal lament…being honest with our emotions, expectations, anxieties and anger…I have learned a lot in the last few years. I'm not sure I was able to communicate that last Sunday in the sermon, but I want everyone to know this is an important issue to me personally. Though it is uncomfortable for me I am learning to work through and embrace these seasons of my life and allow for more grace and space for others going through these seasons. At the end of the day, the transparent, desperate, hopeful language found in the Psalms expressing lament are what I need to break through my attempts to not acknowledge my circumstances and torrent of emotions. Many times the words in such Psalms have helped me to stop suppressing and to start living integrated, opened up and with authenticity, knowing I can express my sorrow and anger but I can also take it all to God and know that He will walk me through.

4. When it comes to corporate lament as a nation we need to be honest with our history...(read more on FB)