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A Morning View By the Wood Stove

February is Black History Month. It is a time set aside to honor the contributions of Black people in this country.

I wonder how many of us each February become uncomfortable with this time set aside? I wonder how many of us who are not black or people of color sit back and say, "We don't have a white history month, why should THEY have a Black History Month?" If THEY are Americans they should embrace our great history. Perhaps if one would look deeply at the history of the United States we would see that it was not and sadly, is not a great history for Black, Asian, Middle Eastern and Hispanic Americans. So why shouldn't we embrace our sisters and brothers who have deep wounds inflicted by our ancestors? There are fabulous, intelligent, grace filled, successful and loving people who are still oppressed because of the color of their skin. They do deserve recognition. 

So your next comment might be, "hey PB, I am not racist." I would have claimed that statement loud and proud. But there is one problem, I really am racist. No, I am not intentionally racist. I strive to love all people created in the image and likeness of God. I do not consciously oppress others based upon the color of their skin. I really work to be nice to THEM. I am willing to give THEM food and help THEM feed their children. In fact many of THEM I would how them close and name THEM friends. I will do my part so that I feel better and do not feel racist. 

I also constantly am reminded to check my language. My intent may be pure, but often my delivery can be unintentionally inappropriate. Just look at my writing above. Intentionally, I capitalized a few words which are not meant to be demeaning, but THEY and THEM? Really? I must become intentional to become better than I already am. I intend to do no harm, but the lack of conscious efforts will never able me to grow and improve. 

Often I wonder if Jesus would show up in a crowd I am with, would he be welcome? After all, Jesus is a person of color. By the way, how many of us have a nice picture of white Jesus hanging in our homes and churches? Do we try to create Jesus in the image and likeness of us? 

Again, I say clearly hope that you are not intentionally racist. I challenge you to do a self check on your heart and intention of what you say and do. Racism must be changed and my fair skinned friends, it begins with us. 

So I honor Black History Month. I honor all persons of color. I embrace the great contributions of Black people. I challenge you to go out educate yourself, read, watch documentaries attend cultural presentations and become informed. 

I heard a quote in a sermon sometime back in the 90's which said, "If you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you've always got." So do something different. Be someone different. Struggle through the awkwardness of different. Be uncomfortable and own it whatever it is. 

“Then Peter replied, “I see very clearly that God shows no favoritism. In every nation he accepts those who fear him and do what is right. This is the message of Good News for the people of Israel—that there is peace with God through Jesus Christ, who is Lord of all.”  - Acts 10:34-36 NLT


“So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”  - John 13:34-35 NLT


Peace? How about we just try.......

PB

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