02 Jun “Shattered hearts are not so easily repaired.”
Dear friends,
I am burdened and heavy hearted by the deep pain plaguing our nation. I grieve and fervently pray for restoration, reconciliation, and lasting change. Our country—our own community—aches and groans.
Violence, racism, and injustice against fellow Image-bearers grieve God, and grieve us. Our Wheeler family is beautifully diverse, and we mourn together. As we serve for the good of our neighbors, Wheeler Mission remains steadfast in praying and working towards equal human flourishing in our community and nation.
Earlier this weekend, I was processing and trying to make sense of what I saw on the news. And then I got the phone call: Wheeler Mission’s Men’s Residential Center and Administration Office were among several downtown Indianapolis buildings that were damaged throughout the weekend’s demonstrations. We sustained shattered windows, broken doors, bullet holes, graffiti, and more. Thankfully, every guest was safe inside.
I drove downtown to see for myself. And when I pulled up, my heart sank. The wreckage was shocking, like a picture from a war zone. The destruction on our little corner of New York and Delaware was a palpable reminder of our nation’s turmoil. We immediately got to work sweeping up glass and boarding up windows. And all the while I kept thinking, while our building will be restored, shattered hearts are not so easily repaired.
Since our inception 127 years ago, Wheeler Mission has been called “A door of hope.” I pray in these dark days, that name would stand even stronger. May our neighbors—every man, woman, and child—that walk through our doors be met with justice, mercy, and the ever-present love of Christ.
In the last several days, our Wheeler team has been so encouraged by the outpouring of support and concern over the destruction of our buildings. Many people have asked what they can do to help:
1. Give funds. While our insurance will cover the repairs, Wheeler is responsible for paying several deductibles. Any additional funds we raise will be funneled back into our operations, enabling us to maintain critical care for our neighbors at this time. Funds can be donated here.
2. Give items. While we navigate the tensions within our city, we are still burdened by the COVID-19 crisis. For a list of critically needed items, please go here.
3. Pray. “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (Psalm 46:1). In this time of trouble, pray for the hurting, pray for justice, pray for our leaders, pray for our neighbors, pray for healing, and pray our nation forgives.
Friends, while our buildings have been broken, our commitment to our community is not. Even amid such unrest, chaos, and uncertainty, Wheeler Mission remains dedicated to sheltering, protecting, and advocating for our neighbors in deepest need. Even as our hearts ache, we cling to hope.
“Your sun shall no more go down, nor your moon withdraw itself; for the Lord will be your everlasting light, and your days of mourning shall be ended.” (Isaiah 60:20)