Tired Yet Thankful and Hopeful

I’m tired right now.

I’m tired of having to witness another unarmed—this time subdued—black man killed by some bad police officers.

I’m tired of saying that most black people aren’t “thugs” and that there are “good” blacks everywhere.

I’m tired of saying that not all cops are bad.

I’m tired of people thinking that I’m a “white” black dude who only wants to talk about how bad the looting is and not about the racial tension that caused it.

I’m tired of having to remind people that not every black protestor desires to see riots and destruction of business in their own community.

I’m tired of my white friends having to ask me how I’m doing because it’s happened again.

I’m tired of being told that since it didn’t happen to me, it shouldn’t affect me.

But I’m thankful.

I’m thankful for all the peaceful protestors who are using their freedom to speak out against injustice and evil.

I’m thankful for the black Christian voices that can keep me encouraged and remind me that I need to speak up and use my voice as well.

I’m thankful for the white Christian voices who are truly concerned and desirous to be there for us.

Im thankful for the white pastors who are literally taking action to help their churches be catalysts in reconciliation, even if they’re called social justice warriors or lose credibility with some in their theological camp.

I’m thankful that there are good police officers of all races—including white!—out to serve and protect the people of this country.

I’m thankful that many police officers and government officials have spoken out on the atrocity we witnessed this week.

I’m thankful most of all for the gospel which saves the souls of all who call on the name of Jesus.

I’m hopeful.

I’m hopeful knowing that this will all be over some day.

I’m hopeful that God will use circumstances like these to strengthen and unite Christians all across this country.

I’m hopeful because Christ will come back and God will wipe every tear from the eyes of His children regardless of what their skin looks like.

I’m hopeful because the Holy Spirit is crying out with groanings too deep for words on the behalf of many speechless and hurting Christians.

I’m hopeful because Christ has given me rest and is interceding for me as well as my brothers and sisters in Him.

And I’m hopeful because I’ve read Revelation. I know the end already because God revealed it and promised to make all things new.

If you don’t know Christ. Get to know Him now. It’s not too late to trust in Him and His finished work. It is through the cross that Jesus paid for sin and broke down the dividing wall of hostility between all of His people. He died to make us all one in Him. He rose again so we could have life. If you want to see true change, seek the Lord and watch Him change you first. Then come join us as we fight together for justice.
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