Love and Mercy

For the People on the Streets of L.A.

At the gym this morning many of the TVs were showing footage of the violence in Los Angeles. Brian Wilson, who died yesterday, came to mind.

I remembered his songs that proclaimed his love for L.A., for Southern California, for beaches, waves, sunrises, sunsets, Hispanic culture. While wondering how he might feel about what is happening on the streets of L.A., the lyrics to Love and Mercy came to my mind:

I was sittin' in a crummy movie with my hands on my chin
Oh, the violence that occurs, seems like we never win

Love and mercy, that's what you need tonight
So love and mercy to you and your friends tonight

I was lyin' in my room and the news came on TV
A lotta people out there hurtin' and it really scares me

Love and mercy, that's what you need tonight
So love and mercy to you and your friends tonight

I was standin' in a bar and watchin' all the people there
Oh, the loneliness in this world, well, it's just not fair

Hey, love and mercy, that's what you need tonight
So love and mercy to you and your friends tonight
Love and mercy, that's what you need tonight

Yes, Lord, we need love and mercy. Amen, come Lord Jesus.