Safe on 26th & Capitol

We talk a lot about safety here at Hope Street. ‘Keep Shechem Safe’ is a flyer I recently made. Protect is one of our core values. Physical safety is an obvious one here. One that I tangibly feel as I drive to work on Capitol Dr. each day. There’s an intersection I cross that feels like it divides safe from unsafe. And it’s a choice. I’m choosing to go into this unsafe place. And some people question that. And some people just won’t do it.  I get it, but I don’t. 

There were a few years in my childhood when we lived in a really rough neighborhood. I definitely didn’t feel safe getting off the bus walking home.  I was different from others in school, and I got picked on. And maybe that prepared me for not being too concerned about driving down Capitol Drive now. Where in some ways I am different, but our differences are celebrated. I don’t know. But I do know that when I get to 26th & Capitol, I feel safe. I usually see a familiar face or two and wave. I don’t worry when I get out of my car. I feel safe at Hope Street. 

Jesus, thank you for the safety You’ve created here at Hope Street. I know that You have protected us from harm. Physical harm, emotional havoc, and spiritual attack. You are our shield, our fortress, our solid rock. I’m so thankful for how You provide this safe haven for our members and our community. Help us continue to do the work it takes to keep it safe as You provide the resources for us to do it well.

Amen,

Hannah