By Rev. Dr. Charlotte Comage
AHERN Staff Writer - 5 Post / March 2022

I am so amazed and encouraged when I research the history of our African American ancestors, and the many challenges which they endured, because their roots of trust, loyalty, and resilience helped to create our lives of which has no limitations in this 21st century that we live. Their hearts and minds were able to focus on the resilience necessary to bounce back from every set-up of disappointments, mental frustrations, and death-defying moments which some faced from the American Civil War. People like Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, and Rosa Parks understood the heroic natures that one had to possess in order to change the world and allow the history books to hold a special paragraph of their courage, love, dedication, and determination.

Personally, all their concerns helped to build the foundations of our freedom, confidence, and other equalities that we so often overlook. Other African- Americans are our unsung heroes who gave their last dollar for us to be where we are today. We should not forget that these individuals were resilient and were able to sustain victory without losing their faith, love, and trust in Christ Jesus. With that thought being my focus, there are many things and obstacles that we must continue to overcome today. Yes, I know it is 2022, and I know and understand that the outer appearance of the skin should not matter, but there are still prejudices and biases that continue to plague our communities, schools, and neighborhoods. We must inform our children and grandchildren of the challenges our people endured.

Often, we want to take matters into our own hands when GOD is the one, who can set the record straight, and see the end from our shallow beginnings. God promises that he is bigger, greater, and a rewarder to them who earnestly seek him. Furthermore, in the book of Hebrews, Chapter 11: verse 6, we are reminded that “without faith, it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who diligently seek him.”

Some of our black ancestors understood this measure of certainty, and my brothers and sisters of Christian Faith, we too must have a made-up mind to trust GOD. Our history books are full of circumstances with things that looked impossible for our ancestors. Also, we still have many miles and roads to travel for history to march on. Justice will prevail, and our faith must be unshakable, unmovable, and upwardly holding onto His truth while believing in the blood-stained banner of God’s righteousness. Truly, looking back it is an awesome privilege when we reflect on pivotal moments where our African American Ancestors helped to provide our Freedom lives from GOD’s Amazing Grace.

Respectfully submitted,
Rev. Dr. Charlotte M. Comage