"In these heart-breaking pleas, I am reminded of Jesus, God with us, suffering on the cross.  I hear again over time and space speaking the words, “Father, forgive them; for they do not know what they are doing.” Luke 23:34    I am consoled to know that somehow in the Spirit, God is with us presently in all our suffering and pain. I am reminded what I have witnessed over the years; followers of Jesus, filled and led by the Spirit, accompanying, serving and consoling those who are suffering.  I see God walking with us in those protecting, shielding and standing in resistance to the powers of fear, racism, violence and war."