By: Bishop Scott Grey, DTh
Part 4
**They Do Not Care: A Call to Action**
Beloved Community,
Before we delve into the urgent work that lies ahead, I must issue a strong and sharp rebuke to the pastors and leaders of faith who have remained silent in this critical moment. You, who did not vote for Donald Trump or any Republicans, but chose to stand idly by, doing nothing from your pulpits during the entire election cycle—your silence has been deafening! Your complacency and cowardliness are just as responsible for the current state of our nation as those who cast their votes for hatred and division. The scriptures remind us that “to whom much is given, much will be required” (Luke 12:48). You have a platform, a voice, and a calling, yet many have chosen to remain silent, failing to lead their congregations in the pursuit of justice and righteousness.
Jesus said, “My sheep know my voice, and another’s voice they will not follow” (John 10:27). We are called to discern truth from falsehood, to follow the voice of the Good Shepherd, and to reject the deceptive calls that lead us into darkness. Yet, too many have chosen to ignore this calling, allowing fear to silence their voices. It is time to rise up, to speak out against injustice, and to lead your people with courage and conviction. Your silence speaks volumes, and we cannot afford to be complacent any longer!
As we stand at this crucial juncture, we must not only confront the reality of the choices that have been made but also carve a path forward—a path illuminated by the light of scripture, guided by the teachings of Jesus, and propelled by our commitment to justice and love. The time has come for us to unite as a force for good, to heed the call of our Creator, and to live out the values that Jesus imparted.
We are reminded in the book of Amos, “Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream” (Amos 5:24). This is our charge! We must commit ourselves to the work of justice and righteousness in the face of a world that seeks to divide and conquer.
So how do we move forward? How do we build a beloved community that embodies the teachings of Christ? Here are the steps we must take:
1. **Commitment to Justice**: We must actively engage in the fight for justice. This means standing up against systemic oppression, advocating for marginalized communities, and ensuring that every voice is heard. “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves; ensure justice for those being crushed” (Proverbs 31:8). We must not only raise our voices but also put our faith into action!
2. **Embrace Humility and Community**: Let us remember the words of Jesus in the Sermon on the Mount: “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5). We must approach our work with humility, recognizing that we do not have all the answers. We must listen to the voices of those who have been oppressed and marginalized.
3. **Practice Generosity**: In the encounter with the rich young ruler, Jesus said, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me” (Matthew 19:21). We must challenge ourselves to give generously, to care for the least among us, and to invest in our communities. This is not just about financial generosity; it is about giving of our time, talents, and love.
4. **Stand Against Complacency**: We must repent for our complacency and the sin of certainty that leads us to believe we are immune to the struggles of others. “If my people, who are called by my name, humble themselves, and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14). Let us turn back to God and seek His guidance!
5. **Reject Division**: We must recognize that we cannot follow Jesus and Donald Trump at the same time. Jesus said, “My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me” (John 10:27). We are called to follow the voice of the true shepherd, who guides us in love and righteousness. We must reject the voices that lead us into hatred, division, and bigotry.
6. **Mobilize for Change**: We must come together to organize rallies, peaceful protests, and advocacy efforts for all marginalized groups, including the African American community and the LGBTQ+ community, as well as advocating for women’s bodily autonomy and the rights of immigrants. We must make phone calls, write letters, and engage in conversations that amplify the voices of the unheard. “For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age” (Ephesians 6:12). This is a spiritual battle, and we must be equipped for it!
7. **Prioritize Safety**: In light of the climate of fear and violence that has been exacerbated by Trump’s executive orders and the rise of hate groups, we must take steps to protect ourselves and our communities. Stay aware of your surroundings, choose safe spaces for gatherings, and build networks of support among neighbors and friends. The scriptures remind us, “They will kill you and think that they do God a favor” (John 16:2). We must acknowledge that the cult-like mentality of the Republican Party and their followers poses a clear and present danger to us all. They are in a cult, and their dangerous ideology fuels acts of violence and division.
8. **Educate and Empower**: Share knowledge about the threats posed by extremist groups such as the KKK and the Proud Boys, and the harmful rhetoric propagated by organizations like the Heritage Foundation and Turning Point USA. Understanding these dangers allows us to counteract them effectively.
9. **Cultivate Community Resilience**: Work to establish support systems within your communities. Create safe spaces where individuals can express their fears and concerns, and where collective action can be organized. Together, we can build a resilient community that stands firm against oppression.
Now, I extend a heartfelt call to repentance. It is time for us to have a change of mind and heart. If you have found yourself complacent, if you have supported policies or leaders that contradict the teachings of Jesus, it is time to turn. Let us remember the words of Jesus during the Sermon on the Mount: “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:3). We must humble ourselves, acknowledge our failures, and seek a new path.
Will you follow Jesus—not just in name but in action? Will you embrace the teachings of love, compassion, and justice that He exemplified? For it is written, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Matthew 22:39). Let us commit to living out this command in every aspect of our lives.
As we close, I invite you to come forward in your heart and spirit. If you recognize that you have strayed from the true path, if you have allowed the voices of division to drown out the voice of Christ, this is your moment to repent.
Let us pray together: “Lord, we come before you with humble hearts. We acknowledge our sins, our complacency, and our failures to follow your teachings. We ask for your forgiveness and your strength to walk in your ways. Help us to be instruments of your peace, to love as you loved, and to serve as you served. May we rise together as one body, united in the pursuit of justice and righteousness. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.”
Now go forth, beloved community, with the courage to act, the wisdom to listen, and the love to embrace all. Together, let us be the light that dispels the darkness, the voice that speaks for the voiceless, and the hands that serve the least of these!
In unwavering hope and faith,
Bishop Scott Grey, DTh.
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