A Church Divided

Why is it that America is more segregated on Sunday than any other time during the week? Why is it that we as Christians are unable or unwilling to accept, respect and cherish the cultures, needs and desires of other people groups to the point of making church about God and not us. We just wrapped up a black history art exhibit at our church. I enjoyed the history much more than the art. It was not very good, but helped me put a face with names that I have heard, even if the faces were a little distorted and alien-like.

I try, but fail, every year to understand why the black community has to relive the experiences of the past. I understand the historical implications and the need to teach our children about our moral failures (slavery), but since my ancestors never experienced this horrific lifestyle I am somewhat removed from it.

My grandfather was born and raised in Lima, Peru. He came to America to have a better life. I now know that he left his wife and moved to L.A., changed his name to sound more American, started a business, remarried, built, bought and owned 3 houses, had two daughters and died happy. Not a silver spoon story, but I cant help but think it was his positive attitude that helped him be successful, not blaming others that held him back or looking for the easy way. There was only one way to make it, work his ass off. and he did. The more I learn about my family I am proud to be part of such hard workers.

I heard about a black economist that described the current situation of the black community. He said that every other people group in America came to America looking for financial freedom prior to looking for political and social freedom. Because the black leaders pressed for social freedom they sacrificed their financial freedom and it wont change until they decide to work towards that.

There has been much discussion about someone to represent the needs of the black community, but noone seems to represent what is wanted. Is it crazy to suggest that maybe this community is not sure what they want.

Here is the main thought behind all of this. Would the understanding and respect the black community deserves come if they focused their energy on the social, political and financial freedoms of other oppressed races rather than themselves. The world has much more hurting groups of people than black Americans.