This week, the world lost 2 giants in the USA Civil Rights Movement. Both Rev. C. T. Vivian and The Honorable Representative John R. Lewis transitioned from labor in this world to rest and reward in the next. They passed away quietly and with dignity, leaving behind a void in the call for justice. While we honor the memories of lives well-lived, what must we do now to truly honor their wisdom, intellect, sacrifice, and drive for freedom? Both Rev. Vivian and Rep. Lewis spoke the truth about injustice and racial bias in this world. Both sacrificed their time to step into the fray and demand change. Neither looked at their work as a separate entity. Both fully acknowledged the leading of God’s Holy Spirit to accomplish the task at hand, freedom, racial justice, and equity.
We do not know what else might have been done had they lived a few years longer. We do not know how many lives were influenced by their example. We cannot count the cost to each of them for continuing the fight. However, we do know that God has raised others who are now ready to step in their footsteps. We must remember that Rep. Lewis was only 23 when he stood front and center of the modern Civil Rights movement and gave an impassioned speech for equality in employment, voting, and access to services. There are young people today with that same drive and determination to serve. They need the support of today’s Christ-centered church. They need to hear the mothers of the church speak on binding up their wounds and fighting another day. They need to hear the fathers of the church remind them that there are safe havens where they can find rest.
Yes, God is our refuge. Yes, the blood of Jesus washed away our confessed sin. Yes, God’s Holy Spirit leads us, guides us, and comforts us. God, however, like in the days of the Book of Judges, raises up warriors to fight. God commissions the fighters. God anoints the fighters. God sends the warriors for training. We must be that place of refuge and training. The Church of Christ Jesus must look around, even outside of our sanctuary walls, to see those whom God has called. We need to offer the called ones all the help that they need.
God decided the winners long ago. Those who are on the Lord’s side will not stumble and they will not fail. We need to be in place to offer all the help demanded from us. God will provide everything that we need to guid our young people into those very big footsteps left by our elders. Rest well Rev. Vivian and Rep. Lewis. You set the tone and set the pace. Now you have passed the baton. Others are coming. There training is complete. They are ready for the appointed time and place. We will be there for support and pray. Rev. Vivian and Rep. Lewis, rest well. Your labor was not in vain.
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