I found myself at the start of this week trying to think of something to post on social media to show some sort of solidarity with all that is happening. I was looking for a way to say black lives matter without actually saying it. I often find myself doing this with most tense situations. In my head I am doing it to love those on both sides. In reality, God has been revealing that I am doing it so that both sides will love me.
Of course, being that man in the middle isn’t always bad. It allows me to see and understand both sides and sometimes even enables me to bridge the two and help find peace/ solution. I believe in this instance, for myself at least, to say nothing would be a sin of silence and to take the middle ground would be a sin of selfishness.
The truth is I understand the essence of the riots. They are a stand against injustice and a response of pain/heartache, of which I myself can’t understand. When they first began, I thought of Jesus in the face of injustice, fashioning a whip and flipping tables in the Temple. No, I don’t agree with the looting, destruction of businesses, and deaths happening on both sides. However, I believe it is possible to both understand what is happening and have compassion while still being against the destruction (I guess that might be for another blog though).
I will end with Romans 12:9-16 and say that I want to do a better job of loving my brothers and sisters of different races with genuine affection. I want you to know that I want to help. I’ll be honest and say that I don’t know how to go about it currently but know that I am praying into and searching for real actions. Most importantly I want you to know that I am not pretending to understand but that I mourn with you.
”Don’t just pretend to love others. Really love them. Hate what is wrong. Hold tightly to what is good. Love each other with genuine affection, and take delight in honoring each other. Never be lazy, but work hard and serve the Lord enthusiastically. Rejoice in our confident hope. Be patient in trouble, and keep on praying. When God’s people are in need, be ready to help them. Always be eager to practice hospitality.
Bless those who persecute you. Don’t curse them; pray that God will bless them. Be happy with those who are happy, and weep with those who weep. Live in harmony with each other. Don’t be too proud to enjoy the company of ordinary people. And don’t think you know it all!”
Black Lives Matter.
