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April 20, 2021

I am writing this morning to acknowledge that many in our Pepperdine community are anxious and hurting this week as the Chauvin trial concludes and the memories of the horrific death of George Floyd flood our hearts, souls, and minds.

There is much work to be done in our country to heal our past, build hope for our future, and achieve racial reconciliation and equality for all: just as our founding documents promise. As a Christian university, ÂÒÂ×ÊÓƵ is committed to this divine aspiration and is compelled to act. So, we are calling our community of believers together for a time of prayer—prayer for unity and healing, prayer for peace and progress. We desperately need God to heal our land. God promises us that:

. . . if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and I will forgive their sin and will heal their land. (2 Chronicles 7:14 NIV)

As I reflect upon the condition of our country, I remain convinced that the only lasting solution to heal our deep wounds will come from God and the transformation of hearts that only God can bring. God is our only hope.

Let your unfailing love surround us, Lord, for our hope is in you alone. (Psalm 33:22 NLT)

My vision for Pepperdine continues to be the building of a resilient and faith-filled community of belonging. Realizing this vision requires us to do two things in this moment: to pray and to act. What are these acts?

He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? (Micah 6:8 ESV)

Please join me on Wednesday, April 21, at 10 AM for a time of community prayer and healing hosted by the Hub for Spiritual Life.