They will speak of the glorious splendor of your majesty, and I will meditate on your wonderful works, and I will proclaim your deeds. They will celebrate your abundant goodness and joyfully sing of your righteousness. Psalms 145:5-7
In that day, declares the Lord, “I will make the sun go down at noon and darken the earth in broad daylight.” – Amos 8:9
Some days I am more hopeful than others about that someday we shall overcome racism, but given the recent violence and demonstrations in support of white supremacy, I must wonder am I being realistic in such hope. I am given some hope when celebrities speak out boldly against the white supremacy re-insurgence, but worry when critical political leaders do not. I worry even more that our predominantly white congregations stay silent for fear of sounding too political, like too many churches did during the rise of Nazis power in Europe in the mid-20th century. People of faith can make a difference, but not through silence.
We can look at the Eclipse tomorrow in many ways:
Humbleness and wonder of the marvel.
Darkness when there is ordinarily light, giving a sense of foreboding.
Recognizing that the tiny moon, relatively speaking, is able for at least a few moments, block the light from our so powerful sun.
Looking at this last one as a metaphor, I like to think that even if those of us who can and do speak up for justice often seems small in number, our faith and hope can make a difference. We need to maintain our humility, however, for I believe that it is in proclaiming the deeds and glory of God that righteousness will prevail. Through God’s grace we can be to sin and evil as the moon is to the sun; and, thus, make a difference.
I hear rumors that anti-Muslim demonstrations are being planned around the nation on September 9. Our September 16th workshop on Understanding the Muslim Faith will be in Casper with Dr. Mohamed Salih and Dr. Tyndall will be presenting. Please register now at Understanding the Muslim Faith
Fear not. Be bold. Do justice.
Blessings,
Chesie Lee