To the Guys Who Stole the Guitar…

This is an open letter to you. I thought perhaps you’d check our church website, so I figured this is the best place to put this. I’m Dave – the pastor at the church and the guy who owned the guitar you took from the stage after our services this past Sunday. I’ve had a few days to process this event, and I wanted to just be real and share a few things with you.

I spent about two days pondering on why you entered Dassel Church of Christ and stole the guitar. Maybe you are having financial difficulties. Many people are. Maybe you needed something to sell so you can feed your family. Maybe it was just an act of selfishness. Maybe it was personal. I don’t know. Here’s one thing though – I’m sorry. I’m sorry the church (as a whole) hasn’t been doing it’s job of taking care of people in need. If you stole the guitar so you can make ends meet for you or your family, I’m sorry.

Here’s the thing - the guitar is just ‘stuff.’ Yes, it sucks that it’s gone. I saved up for that guitar. I even ordered it from a small shop on the other side of the country because it’s sort of rare. I hate that it’s gone. But again – it’s just ‘stuff.’ Stuff is replaceable. People are not. God cares about people. People are to care about people, not stuff.

I am praying for you. I am praying for whatever situation you’re in. I’m praying that if you have needs, the church will help meet them. There is no one righteous – not one (Romans 3:10). We are all people who miss God’s mark. We have all made mistakes. Jesus Christ offers freedom from it all, though. I am praying that the love and power of Jesus Christ moves into your life.

One thing: the guitar strap was special to me. It has been in my family since the 60′s. If you’re reading this and you still have it in your possession and would be willing, would you consider returning it? There is a bench in front of the church. You can simply set it on the bench at anytime. No questions asked.

I forgive you, as Jesus forgave me.

Dave.