Being of African ancestry in the US has always been, and continually remains a subject of analysis, both inside and outside the African-American community. For some Black people, the implications of maintaining our community identity can seem to be a burden, while for others, it is a source of inspiration and thanksgiving.
A beloved preacher asks the questions: “What Makes You So Strong Black Man?” and “What Makes You So Strong Black Woman?”
Sometimes we need to be reminded of these related questions and their common answer. Perhaps it is when we experience vulnerability and hopelessness that a need increases within us to recall what makes us so strong. Perhaps it is when our shared history begins to appear ill-suited to inform our present challenges, that we begin to inquire about the ultimate relevance of our ancestral destiny.
Now you might be asking: “Ancestral destiny – what does that have to do with being a Christian, and where is that in the bible?” These kinds of questions are important to ask, even if we don’t immediately know the answer.
Anyone who is of African ancestry has a history that should never be underestimated in terms of God’s kingdom. This history is full of highs and lows, and is never boring. From Nimrod to Moses, and from the Apostle Paul to Apollos, persons of African ancestry have filled the pages of scripture with tremendous impact and renown. Their combined genetic trajectory would appear headed for nothing short of kingdom-sized majesty.
But something has happened along the way to get us off course from that ancestral direction. The time line of history has taken a path that bears little resemblance to what would have seemed to be the logical consequence of these biblical figures’ lives.
As descendants of these great bible personalities – whether dispersed to the US or elsewhere across the planet – we need to get back to the future. Studying the lives of these biblical giants may help us to recognize how far our path has become diverted away from their footprints.
One classic theory is that sin has carved a tragic historical detour that led to slavery and colonialism. But before we even begin to theorize, we need to become more intimate with the great I AM who nevertheless has preserved us as His scattered remnant for His purposes and His glory. It is He who has provided for us a Comforter to guide us in all truth.
His truth sets us free, unlike most of the “pat” answers that have weighed us down over recent centuries - bearing no resemblance whatsoever to Holy Spirit inspiration. We judge Holy Spirit inspiration by the fruit that it bears.
The kingdom of the Lord is at hand. The Lord has kingdom business for his beloved remnant to do. On earth, as it is in heaven, the Lord has promised to restore His throne in Zion, our true homeland.
But mere genetics will not suffice for us. We need to be ready, with our faith lamps trimmed and burning. We cannot afford any longer to stand by the sidelines, arguing about cultural religious creeds. The great I AM is coming soon.
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