A group called “America Healing” is dedicated to seeking solutions to America’s great racial divide. Its 100 organizations work to address racial iniquities among African American, Native American, Asian Americans, and other ethnicities. Their goal is to bring healing among these various ethnic groups and reduce injustice. Sadly, many Christians ignore the need for social justice today. They are waiting for Jesus to come back and right wrongs. They overlook Jesus’ teaching that He came to set people free from their bondage to hate and oppress the poor and needy. The silence from Christians also ignores the words of prophets that frequently called God’s people to stand up for the downtrodden-the poor, orphans, and widows. The author of Psalm 10 pleaded with God on behalf of hurting people this way: “Arise, O LORD! Punish the wicked, 0 God! Do not ignore the helpless! Why do the wicked get away with despising God? They think, ‘God will never call us to account.’ But you see the trouble and grief they cause.” Now we do not know God’s timetable to punish those who mistreat others. But since we know He is displeased, we strive to help those who hurt.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr.
Dr. Melvin E. Banks, Sr. is the founder and chairman of UMI (Urban Ministries, Inc.). Under his direction, UMI has grown to be a leading publisher of Christian education resources for churches in the African American community. Read More
