In 2014, the country was upset over a young man who laid in the streets for hours like road-kill while many African Americans suffered in grief at another young man’s life disregarded and shamed as to have little value. The country re-lived this pain again and again with others like Alton Sterling and Philando Castile and many more.
Restless with yet hope in God, many went to their church houses looking to hear a word from the Lord and were shocked to find out that those who were once counted as brethren were suddenly divided. Many could not gain any support to walk through this grief from their church homes because the church homes were either in silence or agreement with the negative narratives that were being promoted on the news to devalue the lives of our Black men and women.
Thus, many had to put back on their transient shoes and look for another church to call home. Since then, there have been many discussions and corrections publicly to the Body of Christ to promote the message of unity in the face of racism. Examples of this include Kirk Franklin, who protested TBN last year, and Lecrae who challenged evangelicals on views of racism.
Thankfully, I can say that this time around there is more support from some of our White evangelical leaders. I’m thankful for my new pastor who came out and made a statement and others. Below are statements from Pastors Sam and Taylor Hamstra, Christine Caine, John Bevere, Jentzen Franklin, who pastors in Georgia, and Zauntee, to name a few:
The below messages are from my pastors Sam & Taylor Hamstra of Anthem Church in Hammond, IN.
How awesome it is for injustice to be seen as injustice and life to be seen as valuable no matter the color. This is what so many of us have looked for and longed for in our Christian circles. This is the type of behavior that brings healing and eases the pain. While racism in the body of Christ has not been totally eradicated, it’s hopeful to see that some are willing to stand in unity—mourning with those who mourn no matter the color.
Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn. – Romans 12:15
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! – Psalms 133:1
This is the real gospel. That is what Jesus Christ died for. The gospel is not always comfortable. Sometimes it means addressing some hard truths. As long as we address these things together in love; that’s what makes the difference. I continue to pray for Mr. Arbery’s family as they’ve lost a precious life and they feel the most pain.
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