In 2016, the Museum of African American History and Culture opened in Washington D.C. It traces our history from the horrors of slavery and Jim Crow to the triumphs of the Civil Rights Movement and the election of our first black president. Creators say they hope it will help all Americans see African Americans in a new way—to help find common ground leading to better understanding, healing, and reconciliation. During the days of King Solomon he led his nation in celebrating the Festival of Shelters. This was a God-ordained event to help people recall their living in the wilderness for 40 years—to remind them of where God had brought them from. It was to keep fresh in their memories how God had sustained them. By recalling their wilderness experiences, they would be motivated to worship God and keep their covenant commitments. We read in 2 Chronicles chapter 7 that at the end of the celebration when Solomon sent the people home, “They were all joyful and glad because the Lord had been so good.” Today, God calls His people to take time individually and collectively to recall his blessings to us. In this way, we can be inspired to worship and live for Him.
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
