Justice, Jesus, and Churches: When Is There a Good Time to Speak Out?

In the early morning hours I read sacred texts from the Gospels, the prophets, the Psalms, and Old Testament history. I read of how Jesus treated people, many times the outliers of society, women, poor, demon-possessed, and those with various skin diseases. Their society had declared them untouchables.

Jesus also spoke against and violated the "oral tradition." For instance, He healed the man's withered hand on a Sabbath with a question, all of which amazed the crowds and sent the leaders scurrying off into the distance to figure out how to do away with him.

I am wondering what the "oral tradition" parallel would be for us today? What are the unwritten rules about when, where, how, why to do things or to say things. 

So, I wonder, when is a good time to speak words of grace? When is a good time to stand for righteous causes? Shall we wait until we are through the COVID-19 window of time to speak our hearts and our values and our intentions about race, justice, and reconciliation?

No need to wait, is my opinion. Anytime is a good time to do good things.

Three of our former churches have spoken out publicly about racial injustice and the intent to do better in our world. There may be others. I am moved about these three churches because I know people who are there. 

So, check out their pages and allow grace to capture your heart if your fellowship has remained silent in these times. 

The White Station Church of Christ in Memphis and Dr. John Scott's sermon in response to Dr. King's murder: http://www.cocws.org/real-faith/john-scott-sermon. Dr. Scott was a teacher and mentor of mine during our days in Memphis as a student and as a youth minister. The elders of the White Station Church of Christ speak: https://youtu.be/awhi2J-C6ew. I was on this church staff for five years back in the day. 

The Highland Church of Christ in Memphis, Tennessee speaks these words: https://www.facebook.com/highlandchurchmemphis/videos/270644644000558/ I was part time youth minister at this church back in the day. 

The Highland Church of Christ in Abilene, Texas has these words of encouragement: http://highlandchurch.org/resources/ We were at this church for 20+ years during our journey in Abilene while I was on faculty in the MFT program at ACU. 

As I have pondered for some time now, my question is still, "Why do some restoration movement churches, or why do some churches of Christ speak up in these turbulent times, and why are some of us silent?"  That question haunts me.

Maybe we can all be encouraged, both leaders and followers, both shepherds and sheep, in our churches by what these church leaders have done. Maybe we can be shaped for good by the words of these churches and by their demonstration of how they see themselves in the world. 

I still am moved by the notion that if we want to do justice, "do what Jesus does."  Yes, do what Jesus does. Behave as His hands and feet and eyes and ears.

And His voice.

And His voice. 

And His voice. 

For the sake of the Kingdom.