Throughout the year, we present an article in the bulletin each week on a variety of topics, written by a member of our Parish staff on a rotating basis.
From the Coordinator of Inclusion, Diversity, & Equity
by Corey Shorter
Biblical Principles Expressed Throughout Black History
“Darkness cannot drive out darkness, only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate, only love can do that (Strength to Love).” This is a quote from a famous speech titled ‘Strength to Love’ written in 1963.
The significance of this piece is that it was sending a clear message during some tough times. This message is so impactful not only because it was delivered during a time when it was hard to see the light but also because it was based on biblical principles. In Matthew 5:14-16 it says, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.” Jesus gave us some clear instructions and that was to be the light. The beauty about being the light that Jesus called us to be is the fact that we not only have the opportunity to shine, but we can provide light for others as well.
During the course of black history, it was evidently clear that the mission was to take a stand and fight for the rights of others. This is apparent, especially when you look at the lives of key historical figures during some dark times. For example, Harriet Tubman, known as the Moses to her people, was the conductor of the Underground Railroad. Once she escaped to freedom, she could’ve been content with gaining her freedom, but her freedom wasn’t good enough. She realized that she was called to help others, so she risked her life by making multiple trips back and forth, navigating through the Underground Railroad to help others achieve freedom. She rescued and led an estimated 300 people to their freedom. Or if we look at the life of Dr. Martin Luther King. He dedicated his life’s work to creating an equal society for all races. Dr. Martin Luther King based his mission on biblical principles as well. That biblical principle was LOVE. While trying to fulfill this mission, Dr. King faced some major challenges – he was arrested 29 times, and he was physically harmed as well. He was an advocate for love and peace all the way to the very end.
Dr. King, Harriet Tubman, and a bunch of other influential figures took a stand during some really tough times. They fought against an unfair system that was designed to keep them physically, mentally, and financially oppressed. That system encouraged them to dim their light, but instead of dimming their light, they decided to let their light shine brighter than ever. The fruits of their labor are still apparent to this day decades after their deaths. The recipe for their life’s mission was based on the principles of Faith, Hope, and Love – but as the scripture says, the greatest of all is LOVE.