Ferguson Fear and Hope

To all my African American friends, especially those who have expressed fear for their children in the wake of the Michael Brown tragedy, my heart goes out to you.  I value and treasure your friendship.  You and your children are always welcome in my home and church, and as much as I can make it possible, in every part of my community.  May I offer you a ray of hope?  Yes, we know racism exists in America, and looking at the news, you might be tempted to think it's everywhere.  But the good news is--it's not everywhere!  Don't be overwhelmed with fear.  There are many people who are eager to receive you and your sons and daughters and build positive relationships with you.

The Ferguson story has been tragic in many ways, but in my opinion the saddest part is its potential to erase good will between people and supplant it with fear.  It has also impressed on me the importance in our lives of personal responsibility and holding ourselves accountable before God and others.  Before God, we are all created equal; no one has an advantage or disadvantage because of their color.  God has created each of us uniquely beautiful.  Although our circumstances may be different, we all have freedom of will.  We all must choose how we will exercise our free will.  When we make good choices to love God, love others as we love ourselves, and follow His commands, His favor and blessings cannot help but to chase us down and overcome us.  We will have valuable, positive relationships with others.  Conversely, when we make poor choices, we will surely reap what we sow.  No matter what your color, if you radiate an attitude of disrespect, the probability of receiving disrespect in return rises.  These are universal principles; they apply to all.

So here is my advice to all--Caucasian, African American, or insert your race here--going through life with a chip on your shoulder, blaming others, and thinking that someone owes you something doesn't get you acceptance or understanding.  Working hard, taking responsibility for your actions, being honest, and trying to improve yourself everyday will take you anywhere you want to go (eventually).  People are looking for these qualities in young folks, and in African American men in particular, and are eager to reward these qualities when they find them!

Can I also say that the Church is your best ally?  Don't just associate with the segregated Church.  Get involved with the integrated Church.  You will be blessed by the openness and love, and this will combat the fear of racism being everywhere.  It is not!  We in the Church, and especially the integrated Church, are eager to love and help our brothers and sisters of every color because we know God loves all of us equally.

Finally, the media is skilled at sensationalizing a tragedy to grab an audience.  They do it like it's their job--because it is!  For every tragedy involving race that attracts the national spotlight, I am sure there are hundreds of stories of love, inclusion, friendship, fellowship, and mutual help between people of different races that are not told by the media.  Don't be fooled.  Teach your children to be wise, but don't teach them to live in constant fear of others!

Suggested related readings: 1 Timothy 2:1-4, Romans 13:1-10

Blessings to all!  Love ya!