Our final Black History Month devotional is written by Rev. Marcus Jones, Pastor of the UTA Wesley Foundation. Our students were blessed to have Marcus speak at their Winter Retreat. We’re thankful for Rev. Jones and the perspective he brings to the United Methodist Church and the Central Texas Conference.
He has told you, human one, what is good and what the Lord requires from you: to do justice, embrace faithful love, and walk humbly with your God. - Micah 6:8
Micah 6:8 is a powerful verse that provides guidance for our lives as we seek to live out our faith. As we reflect on this verse in the context of Black history, we can see that these commands are particularly relevant for those seeking to pursue justice and equity.
Throughout history, Black Americans have faced systemic injustice and oppression. From slavery to Jim Crow laws to ongoing issues of racism and discrimination, the struggle for justice and equality continues. In this context, Micah 6:8 takes on even greater significance.
To do justice means to actively work to dismantle systems of oppression and to advocate for change. Throughout Black history, there have been countless individuals and organizations who have fought for justice, from the abolitionists to the civil rights activists of the 1960s to those leading the Black Lives Matter movement today.
To love kindness means to show love and compassion to others, particularly those who have been marginalized and oppressed. In the face of discrimination and violence, Black Americans have demonstrated incredible resilience and compassion towards one another, building strong communities and supporting one another through difficult times.
To walk humbly with God means to acknowledge our own limitations and to seek God's guidance in all we do. Black Americans have often turned to their faith in times of struggle, finding strength and comfort in their relationship with God. Many have also used their faith as a basis for social justice activism, drawing on the teachings of Jesus to advocate for change.
As we reflect on Micah 6:8 in the context of Black history, we are reminded of the ongoing struggle for justice and equity. We are also reminded of the power of compassion, community, and faith in times of struggle. Let us pray for God's guidance and strength as we seek to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with Him in all we do. And may we be inspired by the example of those who have gone before us, who have fought for justice and equality with courage, determination, and love.
By: Rev. Marcus Jones, Pastor of the UTA Wesley Foundation