Each time I recite the words of the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America, I am reminded of how this nation has failed people of color. That notwithstanding, the Lord God of the universe has been faithful. There is no failure in God. The purpose of this writing is not to vilify this country (the powers that be do not need my help, they are quite proficient at doing so), but rather my purpose is to glorify the God of whom we serve. To do that, let me quote the Old Testament character, Hannah, the wife of Elkanah, the mother of Samuel. Here are portions of the “Song of Hannah”:
*My heart rejoices in the Lord, mine horn is exalted in the Lord: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.
* There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none besides thee: neither is there any rock like our God.
* The bows of the mighty man are broken, and they that stumbled are girded with strength.
* The Lord killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bring it up. The Lord maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up. He raises up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the Lord’s, and he hath set the world upon them.
As we celebrate the accomplishments of people of color, remember, “My heart (and I hope, yours) rejoiceth in the Lord, mine horn (strength) is exalted in the Lord.”
Be blessed during Black History Month.
Pastor J. Amos Jones
