Black History Month isn’t just about inventions, achievements, and overcoming obstacles. It’s a powerful testimony to what God can do when the gospel gets hold of a people.
We cannot deny there have been dark moments in American history for people of color. Yet, for so many, that did not destroy their faith; it emboldened their faith. Whether they were dealing with the horrors of slavery or the challenges of segregation, they held on to their faith in Jesus. Many who fought for the abolition of slavery or the ending of Jim Crow did so in recognizing that the gospel makes us all one in Christ.
Their trust in Jesus transformed their lives, filling them with hope even when situations seemed hopeless. The spirituals they sang weren’t just songs; they were prayers sung to God, helping them endure their hardships. The most frequent messages conveyed love and forgiveness, not anger, hatred, or retribution toward their oppressors. They were not seeking an opportunity for revenge but pursuing a desire for freedom and equality. That speaks to the power of the gospel to change hearts even in the most challenging of circumstances.
Remembering these stories gives you an opportunity to highlight these powerful testimonies of faith in the face of crisis. I am not implying that only black people have had to endure, but there is an incredible heritage of a people trusting God through almost impossible situations. That is something that can be an encouragement to everyone.
There is one more reality that we see as well. When you embrace culture and people from all ethnicities, you align yourself with the heart of God. The Bible tells us that God so loved the world (John 3:16), which means everyone is welcome. When you see people of different ethnic backgrounds coming under the banner of Christ, celebrating Jesus and loving each other, that makes the world take notice.
I know I have talked specifically about Black History Month, but these truths are not just about Black people. These are truths that all people should celebrate. Every culture has something to bring to the table that has affected the world and the church. Remembering these things strengthens us as we see God moving his hand throughout history and making advancements in the world and in his kingdom.
This article is about history, and the key part of that word is story. The truth is the stories of Black History are not more important than your story. They are equally important. That’s why we need to keep telling them. In the wonderful words of Mr. Rogers, here is what he said.
“There isn’t anyone you couldn’t learn to love once you’ve heard their story.”
Black History month is all about telling the stories and the more we hear them and know them then hopefully the more we will learn to love each other.
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” – John 13:35
Photo Credit: ©GettyImages/SafakOguz
