A Prayer for Juneteenth
By Clarence Haynes
Bible Reading:
For everything that was written in the past was written to teach us, so that through the endurance taught in the Scriptures and the encouragement they provide we might have hope. - Romans 15:4
The study of history, especially American history, is fascinating to me. There is so much we can learn from looking back, especially in the culture we live in today. Every year on June 19th, we celebrate Juneteenth. For those unaware, this day commemorates June 19, 1865, when Union troops arrived in Galveston, TX, making aware to those who were enslaved that slavery had ended and they were free.
As an African American man living in America, I often wrestle with holidays like these. Not because I don’t think we should recognize them, but because I am afraid that many in our nation are trying to forget, which is contrary to the truth that Scripture teaches us.
As great as it is to celebrate where we are and where we are going, it is critical to never forget where we come from. The truth about American history is that it is imperfect, and one fact that we cannot escape is that it includes the horrendous treatment of many people groups. I don’t say that to make you uncomfortable, but to state facts we cannot, nor should not ever forget. When we forget the past and the challenging experiences of many people in our nation, then we create a narrative that may be true for some but not for all. Many may think that not remembering or glossing over the past is a pathway to unity, but the opposite is true. By not acknowledging the reality, it ends up driving people apart. That’s why this verse in Romans is so critical. We must acknowledge that everything that happened and was written in the past was done to teach us.
What does Juneteenth teach us about our past?
There are many lessons you can draw from Juneteenth, but one I especially want to focus on. Independence and freedom do not truly exist until they are fully realized for everyone. However, we will never understand that until we view history through the lens of someone other than ourselves. For example, our country recognizes July 4, 1776, as Independence Day. This year, we will celebrate 250 years of independence. The irony in that statement is that on that date in 1776, over 20% of the population was still enslaved. It might have been a celebration of independence for some, but not for all. If you were part of the class of freed people, you had reason to celebrate. If you were enslaved, you had none.
Juneteenth should be a reminder not to view your past, your story, or your history only through the lens of your experience or your family’s journey. Yes, you should remember that journey, but it is critical that we consider the viewpoints of those whose paths differ from ours and seek to understand their life experiences. When we can do that, it can shift perspective and help to discover that what is true for one may not be true for all.
Are you willing to be uncomfortable?
If we're honest, most of us prefer the sanitized versions of history. However, that does not help you relate to all your neighbors. When we are willing to wrestle with the uncomfortable truths of our past, then and only then can we begin the process of healing and moving forward. Honestly, this is difficult work, and for some, there is not a great appetite for it. However, for those who choose to look back for understanding and learning, I believe they will discover this can become the pathway to the societal freedom, independence, and healing our country cries out for.
Let’s Pray:
Heavenly Father,
Today I am praying for open eyes and an open heart. Give me tenderness of heart to see life through the experiences of others. I ask for grace not to look with judgment or comparison but with a heart of understanding. Let that understanding lead to heartfelt compassion that seeks not to overlook the past, but to learn from it so I can be an agent of healing. Help me take the posture of Scripture and recognize that only by looking back with honesty and clarity will we ever find the lessons necessary to bring healing today.
In Jesus’ name,
Amen.
Discuss today’s devotional with others in the Your Daily Prayer thread on the Crosswalk Forum.
Photo Credit: iStock/Getty Images Plus/Boonyachoat
He is the author of The Pursuit of Purpose, which helps readers understand how God leads them into his will, and the author of The Pursuit of Victory: How To Conquer Your Greatest Challenges and Win In Your Christian Life. Clarence is also committed to helping 10,000 people learn how to study the Bible and has released his first course, Bible Study Basics, to achieve that goal. To learn more about his ministry and resources, please visit clarencehaynes.com.
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In this episode of the Unhurried Living Podcast, Alan Fadling sits down with theologian and spiritual formation professor Kyle Strobel to discuss the new book When God Seems Distant, coauthored with John Coe. If this episode helps you recenter your work and life on God, be sure to follow Unhurried Living on Apple or Spotify so you never miss an episode!
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