This Time Was Different

There were no riots or outbreaks of violence in Charleston

Nine black people gunned down by a white man

And there were no riots; just sadness at a very deep level

God was present in this; it happened in His house

Is this what made the difference?

This bought many to silence

Those who spoke would have done better to be silent

For their words were empty and falling on ears not wanting to listen

Could this be the moment we come to the end of our rope

And find God waiting?

Could this be the moment we realize we are all to blame

And we all repent

Could this be the moment we realize that our ways fail

And turn to God for help

Could this be the moment we recognize our common humanity

And acknowledge His ultimate Divinity?

Could this be the moment of transformation

And bend our knees and bow our heads

To worship God, the creator of us all

There were no riots or acts of violence in Charleston

Instead there was the hope of redemption, revival, and renewal.