Racism and Religion

When I brush my teeth in the morning, I see my image reflected in the mirror.  Brown skin and a squashed afro.  A sermon or gospel music plays in the background as I prepare for the day.  After my shower, I add my special concoction to the edges of my hair and use a brush to smooth my hair.  I take my head wrap or pantyhose (whichever suits my mood) and pull my hair into it’s signature puff.  I stare at my reflection as I smooth moisturizer onto my skin….my very brown skin.  While I’m prepping, I’m praying.  Praying for guidance…direction…grace.  Because while life is difficult for everyone, it holds special trials for Black Americans.  Wednesday night’s REfresh Bible study was a panel discussion about racism and religion.  I needed it, and you probably do too.

The world has been in an uproar since the video of George Floyd’s murder was first viewed.  Riots and looting have erupted everywhere.  There is unrest.  And not just in the streets.  There is unrest in my soul.  And in the souls of others.  Mr. Floyd’s murder was the latest in a long history of atrocities.  “No justice, no peace” has been a battle cry.  I’ve struggled to find peace.

Pastor led us to the book of Ephesians 4:26.  “Be angry, and do not sin.”  Much of the world has skipped over the first part and gone straight to the do not sin.  I think it’s important that we look at the first part.  Be angry.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve seen posts on social media that don’t address the fact that people have the right to be angry.  Anger is a strong emotion and has value.  Things that anger us should propel to action.  I can’t tell you how often I’ve been angry about different situations in life.  Let me tell you, when I get angry…..it’s not pretty.  I have had difficulty knowing how to channel my anger in positive ways.  That is a skill that didn’t come to me naturally.  And honestly, I still do not handle my anger appropriately but I’m trying.  I have the anger part on lock, and the sin not is a work in progress.

Remaining in a state of anger is not productive for me.  I have to take that anger and use it in a constructive way.  Two things are not changing.  1. I’m a Christian.  2. I’m a black woman in America.  So, what are my options?  I need practical ways to respond to impractical society.

It became apparent that I need to be more informed of my local government infrastructure.  When election time rolls around, I vote.  But I need a better understanding of the function of each office.  Each city has a unique hierarchy.  Being a change agent requires more than my vote.  It means that I need to be involved in the way that my local government functions.  I need to go to meetings that are open to the public.  I can’t afford to be hands off.

Even after the anger has cooled, I need to remain consistent.  Those emotions come to the surface for a reason.  If I’m truly tired, I need to make some true changes.  #wepreach