Month: July 2022

Still Grieving Uvalde

On By Aaron AllisonIn Culture, United States of AmericaLeave a comment
(Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

The information about the mass shooting in Uvalde, Texas, on May 24, 2022, has been too painful to bear, yet the news keeps getting worse. I am deeply impacted by the surveillance videos released by the Austin American-Statesman on July 12.

I recognize I do not understand the complexities of being in law enforcement, but I cannot understand what took place. I can make this conclusion: the power of an AR-15 is astounding. When an untrained 18-year-old can deter dozens of professional officers, that weapon must be considered an instrument of great communal concern. I know many who responsibly own such a gun, connecting ownership with their right to self-defense. I understand that perspective, but can’t we wait a few years for adolescent males to mature, preventing some of the mentally ill from having such an instrument for carnage? It is a conversation that needs to continue, and reasonable minds can collaborate for solutions.

The way of Jesus is the answer to violence

On By Aaron AllisonIn Culture, Current Events, DevotionalLeave a comment

What is the answer to the violence of our culture? There are so many fronts to discuss you would not have time to read a lengthy post from me.

Earlier this week, I read about the Messiah, sent “to guide our feet into the way of peace (Luke 1:79).” Jesus, you are more than our crutch to cope with evil. Jesus, your way will guide us to peace for this world.

May the work of Jesus destroy the iniquity in me and the wickedness in our world. His power is transformational to overcome violence heart by heart.

The intelligence and hard work of a teacher

On By Aaron AllisonIn Culture, EducationLeave a comment

I wish all teachers a well-deserved summer break as I have the highest respect for teachers. My grandparents, Mom, and aunt all were teachers. My sister teaches in Sumner County schools, and my daughter will be a first-year teacher in our district.

These jobs are HARD, and every teacher I know brings intellect, creativity, and heart to their vocation. Let’s get behind our educators and affirm their irreplaceable role in society.

Happy birthday, America. You are exceptional.

On By Aaron AllisonIn History, United States of AmericaLeave a comment

Happy birthday, America! I am proud of my country and grateful to be a citizen.

I am educated enough to understand our sins.
I am theological enough to understand the trappings of nationalism.
I am cynical enough to recognize the market forces that exploit patriotism.

But I am wise enough to know this country is exceptional!

The American experiment changed the world. We are not finished. We are learning to be a great country, and I pray we have the humility and resolve to ascend.

“The establishment of our new Government seemed to be the last great experiment for promoting human happiness.” – George Washington, January 9, 1790

Thank you, Salvus Center

On By Aaron AllisonIn Hendersonville, Tennessee, MissionsLeave a comment

The Salvus Center is a Sumner County non-profit inspired by the Biblical mandate to care for the sick and the needy. I have been an advocate for this ministry since its 2004 inception, serving on the Board of Directors since 2014 and as Board Chair since 2019.

July 1 means my term is up, but my enthusiasm for the mission remains! While I will not be part of the legal oversight, my heart is still with the patients and staff, and I believe in our President, Jennifer Flanagan. I am so grateful for the outstanding leaders I have met through this organization, and they have my support going forward.

Thank you, Salvus Center, for an inspiring mission and a great future in health care.