As followers of Christ, we have much to consider, learn from, and celebrate during Black History Month. When Akyaaaba Addai-Sebo started Black History Month in 1987, he called us to “seize the opportunity to honour the too-often neglected accomplishments of black people. Black History Month allows Christians to go well beyond just honouring accomplishments. We can examine our human pride, pursue reconciliation and forgiveness, and grow in celebrating God’s good gift of diversity.
Today we can look at three lessons from scripture that express the deeper meanings of Black History Month.
Lesson 1. We recognize the image of God in every person.
So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. (Genesis 1:27)
Black History Month is an important time to reflect on the struggles, sacrifices, and accomplishments of Africans, Caribbean and other blacks throughout our nation’s history. It is also an important opportunity to recognize God’s image in every person, regardless of their background or ethnicity. As Christians, we are called to love our neighbours and treat them with respect, as they were all created in the image of God, and therefore, are all equal in His eyes. Some can use this time to examine how they may have contributed to racism and injustice in the past, and how we can work to make our society more equitable and just moving forward.
Lesson 2. We embrace the power of forgiveness.
Forgive us the wrongs we have done, as we forgive the wrongs that others have done to us. (Matthew 6:12)
The power of forgiveness is key to our faith, and it is especially important to remember during Black History Month. We must forgive those who have wronged us and ask for forgiveness from those we have wronged. The only way to move forward in a spirit of love and understanding is to work on healing the wounds of our past.
Lesson 3. We celebrate our differences.
There before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. (Revelation 7:9)
Today black History Month is not just about recognizing our past, but also about celebrating our differences—differences that will make us a beautiful tapestry when we all stand before Yahshua at the end of time. We can use this time to celebrate the contributions black people have made to our society and to appreciate the beauty and diversity of all cultures. By celebrating our differences, we can create a more inclusive, equitable, and just society for everyone.
Let’s Pray
Yahweh, today we remember the struggles of our people of African descent. Thank you for your grace, your love, and your mercy. Lord, we thank you for the leaders that you continue to place in high places and ordinary places. Please inspire each of us to work more faithfully for justice and dignity of life everywhere. Lord God, we remember the hurts of exclusion and prejudice, but we know that you can raise our vision above all barriers and give us wisdom and courage to make this a better world. As you give us yourself in the Bread of Hope and the Cup of Mercy – show us how to give ourselves to those who are without hope and to those who cry for mercy. God, take control in this hour so we will go from this day with the freedom of those who trust in you. In Christ’s name, Amen.
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