The Power of Faith

2/21/2021

Hebrews 11:1 "Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

 February is Black History Month in the US. I will never be able to understand what it is like to be a person of color, but I am deeply moved by the spiritual legacy that was left by those who were oppressed for generations. Currently, I am watching a program on PBS called The Black Church: This is Our Story, This is Our Song. I came upon it just after the period of the Civil War. The focus is on Southern Black churches, the people's abiding faith in Christ, and the amazing spirituals that they sang throughout their oppression. All these things kept them close to both God and a larger truth. It is so very moving to even try imagining such a level of perseverance in the face of unbelievable treatment. As I am sitting here thinking of this, the tears stream from my eyes.

The connection these beautiful souls had to God and their faith despite such horrible behavior towards them is so inspiring. Again, this is not even really something I can comprehend. They truly believed in God's love, and kept alive the hope that can only come from a relationship with Jesus. Their faith in Jesus kept them going in times when there was awful treatment and they had no rights in our nation. They were not even considered citizens in their own country, but they understood they were always citizens of heaven. These strong people of faith, through their perseverance, changed the course of history. The Bible, God's Holy Word, was not only integral to their faith, but was also used to educate people. 

There is so much for all of us, regardless of the color of our skin, to learn by the strength of this amazing level of faith. We are, all of us, God's creation and His children, and this is the absolute truth. Tragically, the Bible has been used throughout history to propagate hatred and oppression, and this fills my soul with sorrow. As people of faith throughout history knew, so I know that God is on His throne, and He covers us with His love and mercy. His joy comes in the morning. 

This evening, I am encouraged by watching stories about the lives of strong, faithful people standing on the truth of the Bible. There is amazing power in these stories, and I am moved to do more and be bolder during this deeply turbulent time. There is power in the name of Jesus, and these believers knew that at their very cores. They worshiped the Savior fully and unashamedly, and gained strength through faith. These dear souls survived more hardships and hatred than I can possibly know, and their legacy should be a light and example for every believer.  

You can watch The Black Church: This is Our Story, This is Our Song on Amazon Prime if you are curious.