The colors associated with a contusion towards the human body – a region of injured tissue or skin in which blood capillaries have been ruptured; a bruise.
Ironically, also, the colors that are on both sides of this explosion of hatred and evil. The colors of two peoples who are both very much afraid. The colors of moms, dads, kids, and friends who want nothing more than to be safe.
Black and blue.
In light of recent events, I have felt the pressure to express where I stand on this, as all Christians are not standing in the same place. Some Christians are arguing that #BlackLivesMatter reflects the views of the gospel while #BlueLivesMatter erases the significance of black lives and promotes racism. Some argue that #BlueLivesMatter is out of respect for policemen that are laying their lives down and #BlackLivesMatter promotes violence and disrespect. Many argue that you cannot believe both. This is concerning, yes, but even more than that, confusing.
Mostly confusing because to me, they are the same team.
Very close to my heart is a middle aged, African American named Stacey, a mama of 3 perfect kids and wife to a wonderful husband. She works as a couselor at my old high school, helping guide children of every color through educational issues and life issues. She is outgoing, hilarious, compassionate; she is exactly the mom and friend I dream of being. She loves Jesus deeply. She loves people deeply.
Also very close to my heart is a 27 year old policeman named Patrick. He is the husband of one of my best friends, the daddy of two amazing kids, and the big brother I always wanted. He sleeps during the day so that he can spend his nights protecting people of every color. He is goofy, he is selfless, he is hardworking; he is the kind of man I want to marry one day. He loves Jesus deeply. He loves people deeply.
They are the reason why I can never use either hashtag, because both matter to me equally and using one cancels the other out. I cannot simply use #BlueLivesMatter and erase the importance of the black lives that have changed mine. I cannot simply use #BlackLivesMatter and discredit the sacrifice and selflessness that Pat daily puts his life on the line for. I worry about both of their safety. I pray for both of their protection. I want both of them to be seen for who they are — incredible human beings.
So how can I choose? I can’t.
But I don’t have to. Because this war is not black vs. blue.
This war is not anything except evil and darkness vs. love and light.
Do not let evil divide those of us who know what is right. Christians have enough persecution without Christians who are shooting down their own men.
Keep the main thing the main thing.
The racist cop and the violent black are on one side. The rest of you are on the other. Recognize that good-hearted blacks and good-hearted policemen are on that side with you. The side that bears an armor of light and proudly wears both black and blue.
Grace In Between 