As a person too tenderhearted to even watch an episode of “CSI: Crime Scene Investigation,” I began my month of grand jury service with great anxiety. Unlike other juries that decide guilt or innocence of one case, a grand jury decides whether enough evidence exists to warrant a trial. Grand juries hear from witnesses – police investigators, social workers, victims, and others who have witnessed the felony. I felt it was a privilege – not a burden – to serve.
Daily, I was fortunate to return to a safe home, and weekly I was grounded in worship with my faith community. Midway through the month, the gospel reading was from John 14, in which Jesus promises the Holy Spirit – also known as advocate, comforter, truth-teller. An advocate (paraclete) can function in a legal sense, of course, one who advocates for you before a court of law. But it can also mean something more relational – one who brings help, consolation, comfort, and encouragement.
As people of faith, we are called to serve in a multitude of ways – including in the public square. And that just might mean jury duty, phone calls, and standing up for strangers.
This message is excerpted from “As people of faith, we are called to serve in a multitude of ways” by Julie B. Sevig from the September 13, 2021, blog of the Women of the ELCA. Today is the anniversary of the attack on the World Trade Center in New York City.
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