She Who Kneels

I am standing in front of a group of eager young women.  The breakfast is co-sponsored by God’s Word In Action, BWOPA (Black Women Organized for Political Action) Richmond/Contra Costa Chapter and Binspired.  Our topic is “Investing In Your Purpose.” As we go around the room for introductions, many young women say they are looking for “empowerment.”  All of the mature women offer our support as these young women begin to  navigate this journey called “life.”

The group includes about 20 young women from West Contra Costa County and a wonderful cadre of accomplished educators, spirit-filled leaders and community advocates.   It is my privilege to share some of the milestones in my life.  Milestones that were achieved by faith and perseverance. I share with them that many times along the journey, I did not know my path or my purpose.  But I trust God to lead me and guide me.  Sometimes I simply pray that He will “order my steps.”

We Are Not Ashamed

I am struck by how we each share our faith in God, openly and freely.  Too often, we hesitate to share our faith publicly.  It reminds me of one of my favorite songs my Free Spirits Choir used to sing “We Are Not Ashamed of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”  As we face the challenges of this time in our history, many people are putting their faith in the power of prayer.  We believe that “nothing can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 8:39.)  As a Christian in this season of Christmas, I feel the need to say that I am not ashamed of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

I am a proud member of Glad Tidings Church of God In Christ in Hayward, California.  I do not always agree with the doctrines of the Church.  I appreciate, however, the role that my Church plays in the struggle for equal justice and human rights.  Two years ago, on Sunday, December 14, 2014, 12,000 COGIC Churches stood in solidarity with “Black Lives Matter.”  COGIC historically strongly supports human and civil rights movements.  Indeed, Dr. Martin Luther King delivered his last speech “I’ve Been to the Mountaintop” at Mason Temple (COGIC Headquarters) in Memphis.

Faith And Works In Action

Perhaps I am a “radical” Christian.  But my belief in the gospel of Jesus Christ is what calls me to fight for justice without compromise.  The power of “the sword” in the halls of injustice truly comes from my faith and the grace of God.  At Christmastime, we celebrate the birth of Christ.  His birth “demonstrates that while evil is entrenched in this world, it is not in charge.”  Certainly, as we enter the era of Trump, this is a message we need to hear loudly proclaimed.  For me, Jesus is truly the light and the hope of the world.