A Lament for Christians Grieved by Fellow Christians Who Deny Ethnocentric Oppression on our African American Neighbors Today in Light of Mr. Arbery's Killing

My heart is heavy. And angered. I mourn because it seems that Brother Samuel Sey and many who resonate with his article deny the unjust ethnocentric pressure that exists in our culture today. It is technically true that the two killers may not have been racially motivated. That is possible and I can grant that.

What I cannot peacefully ignore is the assumption that unrighteous ethnocentric pressure does not exist on the African American community today, generally speaking. This assumption by well-meaning and otherwise discerning Christians attempts to speak the truth in love (Eph 4:15) when they actually "love" without the discernment and knowledge we pray for (Phil 1:9): "And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment . . ."

Father in heaven, show us your truth, submitted to Scripture that accurately discerns the dynamics of our cultural and historical moment. Grant wisdom to the churches to discern your truth and may our love abound more and more in knowledge and discernment. And when our brothers and sisters who strive side-by-side for the gospel say foolish things from a well-intentioned heart to love, give those who see that folly the discernment to love wisely, patiently, humbly, with a hope and genuine care for those we pray for.

Provide a Christ-centered, converting, sanctifying comfort to those who mourn not only the death of Arbery and the raw nerve it strikes among our African-American neighbors, but also mourn the well-intentioned yet undiscerning takes by our dearly loved fellow believers and preachers.

Help us all grow in love abounding more and more in knowledge and discernment. And help those in Christ experience your kingdom blessing:

Blessed are those who mourn,

for they will be comforted

Matthew 5:4

In Jesus's name. Amen.