It has taken me a few days to process all that has occurred in the past few weeks. With the recent killings in both Buffalo, N.Y. and Uvalde, Tx., one can either be filled with rage or in a perpetual state of numbness. Yet, I believe there is a time when righteous indignation has its place, and this is the time for such. The issue we are facing is much broader than partisan politics or the right to bear arms. The issue before us is our inability to pass common sense gun laws.
We lack this ability because we are being held captive by a few leaders who seek to impose their will upon our nation and refuse to pass comprehensive gun reform. We are also faced with the rise of white nationalism whose ambers are being stoked by domestic terrorist. Such supremacy has always been there woven into the fabric of our nation, but of late, it has found the strength of heart to raise its head.
As a Christian minister, it is my job to examine the ills of society and try to articulate through scripture a way forward with Christ as our example. America must examine where it is morally and ethically and be honest about what it sees. There is a moral obligation to create and maintain a society where we all are safe. Our places of worship are starting to look more like armed fortresses rather than houses of prayer. Schools, which have historically been safe places for our children, have increased security guards and procedures to safeguard our most vulnerable. Grandma and grandpa who are simply shopping at the grocery store must be on high alert for the intentions of the wicked. Something must change.
I still believe in the goodwill of humanity and the power of righteousness to overcome evil. I still believe that God works through people and that through us God will make a way. We must not only pray for legislation and victims, but we must hold our elected officials accountable. We must teach our children the importance of civic engagement and love for all mankind. We must teach our children that what is often the most politically expedient is not always morally right. We must become engaged in community.
It is a critical time to stand for common sense gun laws, for not to do so is a sin. James 4:17 “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin for them.”
Rev. Dr. Ernest L. Reid, Jr.