In 1963, four little girls in Birmingham AL were killed by hate-filled men. Few people at the time could envision any good coming from that horrible event. But that terrible tragedy aroused the nation to act. Within two years, Congress passed two important laws–the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. This legislation has fostered justice for many ever since. Long ago, the nation of ancient Israel was deep in despair, languishing in exile—few in number, living in extreme poverty, worshiping in a very small temple, plus they were totally controlled by foreign powers—Their situation was dire. God sent them this message found in Isaiah chapter 60: “Arise, shine, for your light has come, and the glory of the LORD rises upon you.” God encouraged them by promising them a better tomorrow. Today, we often find ourselves in what seems like a hopeless and meaningless situation. Still, for those who truly belong to God, He makes all things work together for our good—in His own time and in His own way. So whatever our plight, we can rest in God’s word found in Hebrews 13:5: He says, “I will never leave you. I will never abandon you.”
Photo Credit: O’Halloran, Thomas J.
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
