In Lisa Schirch’s “Repair and Renewal” (February), debt repayment is called out as the basis for action. While repaying debts for damages is essential to justice in the present, holding children guilty and responsible for ancestors’ actions over a century ago seems unbiblical and unhelpful. I believe being part of God’s “Beloved Community” — founded on love, respect, dignity, care, collaboration, trust, truth and creativity — offers all the motivation we need for justice, repair and restoration. A foundation built on loving grace is far preferable to one based on guilt, debt, shame or obligation that can never be removed.

Rob Hanson, Boise, Idaho