This week as we lament the passing of Nelson Mandela, I am reminded of just how incredible God can be and how present He can be if we give our lives for others. This week I am reminded that in my lifetime I have seen God use two black men with African heritage as examples of His love, grace, and power. Dr King and Nelson Mandela have led the way and left incredible examples. One rising from the midst of Jim Crow, and the other from apartheid to offer us a way to live as neighbors and friends and to offer the world hope.
Amidst all the negative attention given to black men and dark skinned people around the world, I think it should be noted that two of the most significant events in our lifetime were brought about by the leadership of men with dark skin and African ancestry. They represented God and his Kingdom in powerful ways in spite of the hardships they received. They put feet to what it means to love your enemy.
Therefore I am without excuse as to my responsibility in the world as a follower of Jesus and as a black man. It gives hope to millions and especially those suffering injustice. The hounds of hell, as I call them, will keep us focused on the outlandish injustice and racism in our midst, but the prophetic message and human example of Nelson Mandela and Dr. King can keep us focused.
Many days it seems that the forces of evil are going to win the day, and that those with privilege based on skin color need to be the ones leading. But history has taught us better: the legacy of Nelson Mandela shows us that even though the systems may oppress, love and perseverance and hope win out in the end. Black men are imprisoned more than any other population in the world, yet our light continues to shine. It was in fact a black prisoner that led a nation to freedom. What some mean for evil, God can use for good.
Leroy Barber , Global ED Word Made Flesh