The Atlantic Union Conference joins its voice with those who are peacefully crying out against all actions of hate, violence, and racism that threaten to undermine basic rights for all humans in the eyes of God. Words cannot express the pain, anger, and frustration that so many of us feel. Let us remember the names of our brothers and sisters who have lost their lives. As a Christian community, we condemn the actions that took their lives and call for justice to be served for the victims and their families.
Christianity and racism do not belong together. In fact, Christianity and inhumanity are diametrically opposed to each other. God is love, and “whoever claims to love God yet hates a brother or sister is a liar. For whoever does not love their brother and sister whom they have seen, cannot love God, whom they have not seen” (1 John 4:20, NIV). As God’s chosen people, we are to wear compassion and kindness as a garment (Colossians 3:12) and seek justice and show mercy for those who can’t fight for themselves (Isaiah 1:17).
In 1871, Ellen White wrote, “Christ regards all acts of mercy, benevolence, and thoughtful consideration for the unfortunate, the blind, the lame, the sick, the widow, and the orphan as done to Himself: and these works are preserved in the heavenly records and will be rewarded. On the other hand, a record will be written in the book against those who manifest the indifference of the priest and the Levite to the unfortunate, and those who take any advantage of the misfortunes of others” (Testimonies for the Church, vol. 3, p. 512). Therefore, we encourage members of the Atlantic Union Conference to continue to pray and raise their voices against injustice and hatred. We also condemn all acts of violence, looting, and destruction of properties. We urge you to exhibit the love and compassion of Christ in your daily life to everyone you encounter, and speak up, as Christ did, for those who are being treated unfairly.
We believe in the equality of all people, regardless of color or vocation. God has created all mankind equal to live out their full potential. We pray that God will bring peace and healing to this nation. The Scripture says; “If My people who are called by My name will 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 heal their land” (2 Chronicles 7:14 NKJV).
We believe that in these last days perilous times will come. We are seeing the fulfillment of prophecy. Let us look up and prepare for the soon return of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
Comments are closed.