Stop Killing the Children...

In October 2007, ten year-old Arthur Jones was on his way to buy some candy when he was caught in the crossfire of a gang feud in Englewood. Arthur is just one of 24 Chicago Public School children who have died this school year due to violence. The situation is tragic and alarming. So what is being done to stop the violence? I watched a town hall meeting tonight aimed at solving the problem of violence in Chicago. Solutions offered were many and varied, touching on education, employment, parenting and policing. As city leaders shared, it became obvious that the problem facing our city is complex and widespread. Though certain neighborhoods are considered hot spots, the affects of violence reach everyone and everywhere. That means everyone, everywhere needs to be part of the solution. Sadly, it seems much of the Body of Christ isn’t getting involved. There are some concerned groups of believers who are hitting the streets to make their presence known. I joined a prayer group this morning outside a public school in Englewood. It was good to pray, but I left thinking, ‘If more believers and more churches were actively pursuing peace, then we could really make an impact.’

... although I am not in Chicago.. I am still very much touched by what is going on there.. this was taken from a recent prayer letter I recieve from the Harry family who is serving there with Here's Life Inner City Chicago. Its alarming.. and scary to me, and I wanted to share it with you guys. The last time I was there about a year ago, a 16 year old student was killed while riding the city bus when to boys opened fire. The 16 year old boy jumped in front of a bullet that was aimed at a young high school girl. Just wanted to give you an idea of what's going on there and how you can be praying for the city of Chicago, and those seeking to bring peace to the city.