4 Areas of Engagement for Christians

The recent police shootings of African-American men appear senseless and unwarranted to many people.  Communities across the nation are angry, hurt, fearful, perplexed, troubled, and a host of other emotions.  We wonder why a disproportionate number of African-Americans continue to be killed by officers.  We wonder if America will ever be a place where ALL people are viewed as equal and are endowed with the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.  The lyrics of Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On seem more relevant now than they were when the song was released more than 45 years ago.  Many cry out to God asking, “How long, O Lord!”  What are the people of God to do?

While there is not one solution to this complex and seemingly systemic problem, there is something that I believe we must do.  Over time, doing this one thing will change the course and the culture.  We must move beyond enraged to being engaged.  I want to suggest four areas of engagement for Christians.
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1. Prayer.  Big problems are no match for an even bigger God.  Prayer activates God’s healing power upon the land (2 Chronicles 7:14).  We should pray for those who are representative of all three branches of government, which includes those in law enforcement (Pray 1 Timothy 2:1-4).  Pray that the good news of the gospel will spread and transform hearts of stone into hearts of flesh, so that love of humanity will replace racism, prejudice, and hatred.   
2. Participation.  While love cannot be legislated, laws can help protect the innocent and punish the guilty.  Christians should participate in the process.  Your vote helps shape policy and practice.  When we vote in elections for offices like mayor, city council members, district attorney, sheriff, judges, county commissioners, governor, president, and congressional representatives, we are participating in shaping the culture of the justice system, the economy, and our freedom as Christians to live out our faith.  Our participation can change the culture.  Imagine the blessings upon the land when God’s people are part of law enforcement, sit on grand juries and juries, hold offices of influence, and are civically engaged.  Think about the good that God can do through us!
3. Partnering.  The people of God can partner with the community and law enforcement.  Perhaps it’s mentoring youth.  Maybe it is being the catalyst that brings law enforcement and the community together.  It can be as simple as talking to young men about the need to respect all people and avoid being in certain places and situations.  Christians can be a bridge in our communities. 
4. Purpose.  We must always remember why we exist.  God saved us to help save others.  We should be intentional about engagement.  Do what you do on purpose with a purpose.  The gospel is at the heart of who we are and what we do.  We are part of God’s kingdom on earth.  We have been called to greater and higher.  Remember that the only way the world will get better is if those in the kingdom make disciples for the King.  Incidents of hatred and injustice are reminders that we should be leading others to Christ.  When tragedy happens, don’t just get mad, seek to make a difference.