God is Calling Us to Action
Before these last few weeks, I can’t say that I have wept with the Black community. I am ashamed that I have rested in the comfort of my complacency for this long. Yes, in the past I may have expressed my anger after hearing about the countless acts of racial injustice and police brutality, but that anger has never propelled me to take action in any way. What was it about the deaths of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery that struck a chord with all of us? Maybe it is because we are in the middle of a pandemic– one that has quite literally forced us to sit in our thoughts and reflect on the ugliness within ourselves and our society. Now again we are forced to face head-on with another pandemic that is so deeply rooted in the soul of this country– systemic racism.
Growing up in the church I was taught to be kingdom-minded. It's a concept I have always struggled to fully comprehend. What I do know is that it calls us to be on mission to the world, not just those within the walls of the church. If ALL human beings were created to be image bearers of God, how can we sit still while structures and systems continuously hurt parts of our FAMILY. I listened to a beautiful sermon by Pastor Matt Chandler last Sunday. He was speaking from Ephesians 1:18, on the rich and glorious inheritance Christ has bought for us. This inheritance is the unity of spirit between all races born of the gospel of Jesus Christ. When we choose to ignore the lament and mourning of those who are hurting, and instead sit back, pointing our critical fingers, we are abandoning this inheritance.
Many of us are indeed very late to this conversation, but I’d also like to think that we aren't too late. The cries of our Black brothers and sisters are louder than ever. In Isaiah 1:17 we are called to "seek justice and correct oppression." It is time for us to pick up the burden that they have carried themselves for much too long.
My hope and prayer is that we, as Christ followers, will recognize that it is our place to run toward the darkness rather than stay out of it. May we actually live out the gospel that we preach. I have been hearing many christians say "There's not much I can do but pray for a change in hearts..." Of course prayer is a powerful weapon, but sometimes, it simply cannot stand on its own. Perhaps God wants to use His people as tools to create this change; whether it be hearts or real systemic change.
Taking action can look different for everyone. You could be marching alongside thousands at a protest, others of you are educating yourselves through books and podcasts, or donating to an organization you feel strongly about. Over this past month, I have forced myself to have difficult conversations with my family about the reality of systemic racism and police brutality in our country. 9 out of 10 times, these conversations quickly get turned sideways and end in angry outbursts, tears, and completely off track from the root of the issue. It is frustrating, discouraging, and some of you might be able to relate. However, through these conversations, I can say that God has revealed His heart to me more than ever before.
I want to end by sharing four ways I am asking God for help in my journey of racial justice and reconciliation. Lord help me to...
1. LISTEN to listen and not just to respond.
I never want to assume I know the depth of what Black people in this country have been through. How can I be intentional in my prayers if I am not listening to their cries? Not only that, I want to listen to people I disagree with. Minds might not change, but the least we can give each other is that respect. Listening creates a space to practice empathy.
2. ENGAGE in material, conversations, and ideas that make me uncomfortable. Why do I feel defensive?
3. Use my privilege to SUPPORT and UPLIFT black voices and perspectives.
4. BE VOCAL. I believe the issue of racism is very black and white. If I see or hear wrong, let me call it out! We all have influence, no matter how big or small.
I know the last three months have felt like an entire year.. We are all exhausted– both emotionally and mentally, but I urge us to keep going! Together! Racism is in no way representative of Christ or the Kingdom of God, and this fight is not going to be short and sweet. But we have a good and faithful God who is holding us up and leading the way. Lastly, I want to express my gratitude to the Common Good community for being a church that is vocal on issues of racial injustice; for encouraging and facilitating conversations around a subject that can easily be ignored. Thank you for reading my thoughts. I’m sure it is reiterating what you have all read and know, so I appreciate you all!
With love,
Elaine