Station 2

Scripture:
It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery. - Galatians 5:1

Reflection:
On Juneteenth, we remember that America was built upon the backs of unpaid, slave labor. We also acknowledge the segregation that presently exists in America’s churches is a direct result of black slaves building their own Christian communities because they were denied full participation in white slaveholders’ churches. While we celebrate the abolition of slavery we must recognize a persistent history of laws and public policies that directly intended to separate, disadvantage, and harm African-Americans.

Just as Jesus sets us free from sin, we’re also called to the continued work of setting our neighbors free from structures that hinder their full lives. Existing laws that make it harder for people to vote and others that make it harder to hold police accountable for abuses of power are just two examples of present day oppression. Changing laws is only the beginning. Our communities are full of practices, attitudes, and biases that harm people of color. What are the systems, policies or attitudes that keep people around you from living out their full potential and joy? How can you personally affect change in those areas?

Photo: Slaves picking cotton. Credit: theievoice.com.