BRIDGE TO RECONCILIATION

 This is not an easy conversation to have, but a very necessary one.  God is clearly bringing to a head something that has been largely ignored for generations and I cannot be neutral when any human life is given less value than the infinite value God has given. I’ve asked two people that I dearly love, who also happen to be African American, to allow me to interview them because in order to care, we have to listen to stories of prejudice that we will never know or think about otherwise. But my two friends are also rooted deeply in their love for Jesus and because of that are ones who love others deeply and will provide a perspective of great hope. They live a life that conveys the truth of the love of Jesus which is the only answer this world has against hate or racism or injustice of any kind. While the pain of injustice is excruciatingly real, the hope and love of Jesus is an even greater reality.

Even though it feels awkward to have such open conversations and no one quite knows the best way to do this (regardless of the color of their skin), we must lean into those who have been hurting and listen with a heart that genuinely cares. I cannot fully understand what my African American brothers and sisters have endured growing up in this country, but I can allow my heart to be touched and softened and I can choose to walk alongside and allow my voice to be heard.

Will you please join with me in the process of building bridges of reconciliation?

Love, Pastor Brent