What
good do protestors accomplish by cursing, yelling, throwing rocks, physical
assaults and death threats? Yes, they
get the attention of the public, news media and lawmakers. However, in the face of such lawlessness
their cause has become blurred due to their egregious actions. Furthermore, the character they have brought to
the table to attain their goals has become marred.
Martin
Luther King, Jr. was adamant about his use of peaceful means for change. He once stated, “Violence as a way of achieving racial justice is both
impractical and immoral. I am not unmindful of the fact that violence often brings
about momentary results. Nations have frequently won their independence in
battle. But in spite of temporary victories, violence never brings permanent
peace.” Yes, his protests did have
clashes with police but he did not provoke it with rude and crude means. He maintained class and calmness in the face
of unjust circumstances.
There is indeed a tragedy of epic
proportions among the young black men of our American inner cities. The situation they face should alarm all
Americans no matter their color. For an
inner city black baby to grow up and graduate from high school is against many
odds, then adding college, finding a career, getting married and having a
family is even more rare. Unfortunately,
going to prison or getting shot from gang violence or police is all too
common.
Does retaliating against police or
the system help these young men? I
believe the answer starts with Jesus.
Through His suffering, death and resurrection overcame all the forces
hell could assail at Him. He said, “The
thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy.
I came that they may have life and have it abundantly. I am the good shepherd” (John 10:10).
If protestors sought out inner city
pastors and churches and together they cried out to God against the evil and
injustices in their communities, what a difference that would make! Through Jesus division can turn to unity,
evil to good and hate to love.
