Therefore, since we
have a great high priest who has ascended into heaven, Jesus the Son of God,
let us hold firmly to the faith we profess. For we do not have a high priest
who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been
tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach
God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find
grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:14-16
James Brown wrote a song back in 1968 when the civil rights
movement was in full swing. It stated
quite simply, “Say it loud! I’m black
and I’m proud.” Many of you might ask
why on earth that would ever need to be said.
Well society back then was not always kind to African Americans. Blessed with an incredible family, I grew up
being proud of who I was even when there were subtle times society would
question not only who I was but also whether I belonged. This became my motivation and strength to
persevere through those challenges. I
share this not to bring up my ethnicity.
Rather, it is bring up the conviction and strength one has when they
know who they are.
As followers of Christ, we are to stand proudly on our
faith. Always! The other day, I was putting a reminder of my
Wednesday bible study in my online calendar.
I hesitated to put it there because my calendar is public to my team and
peers and might be seen as politically incorrect. Then like the lessons my family taught me, I
asked myself, “Why do I need to deny who I am?”
We should neither hide nor shy away from the faith that has freed us
from the bondage of our sins. Much of
who we are at work revolves around the fruits of the spirit (patience, love, honor,
humility), and our coworkers and family feel secure knowing that we will do our
best following the example of the God we adore and love.
As faithful Christians, who we are centers on the cross. David said in the 27th Psalm, “The
Lord is my light and my salvation- whom shall I fear?” (Psalm 27:1a) Our love for Christ trumps all. Whether it is through actions or words, we
should always embrace the God who gives us strength and is indeed mighty to
save. Where do you hide your faith? How will you respond in a place where it
feels uncomfortable to be a follower of Christ?
My prayer is that we like James Brown say it loud! I’m Christian and proud! Amen.
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