Celebrating Juneteenth
Although many individuals and families have observed Juneteenth for generations, the holiday is newly-formalized and quite deserving of its increased observance nationally. Although the "what" and "why" of Juneteenth may be old news to you, we wanted to take a moment today to enjoy celebrating and remembering these things.
Two & a Half Years: Some History
Though the Emancipation Proclamation was issued in 1863, the news—and its enforcement—didn't reach Texas for another two and a half years, meaning many enslaved Africans continued to live under the evil of slavery. On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas and announced that all enslaved people were finally free.
How Can We Observe Juneteenth?
It is a day of celebration and jubilation, and a call for us as the church to remember (Exodus 3:7) and celebrate the liberation of our Black Brothers and Sisters (Psalm 133:1 & Isaiah 61:1), honor the perseverance and faith of the Black church throughout history. We also must mourn the very need for Juneteenth, grieving that slavery is part of our country’s history (Nahum 1:13). Juneteenth is more than an “official holiday.” For the Christian, it calls back to God’s commands for redemption among His people (Leviticus 25). God called the Hebrews to redemptive rest and worship (vv. 1–5), redemptive liberty (vv. 8–17), and redemptive justice (vv. 35–43). Scripture shows us that God’s plans are incompatible with prejudice and injustice. As God’s people, we are called to engage in His Kingdom work of justice.
Observing Together
Some of our singing this last Sunday, June 15, oriented around this celebration and our need to seek God’s redemption. You can see that moment of our service below.
An additional Resource
We also wanted to share an article from The Gospel Coalition that has several informative ways to help us celebrate and participate in Juneteenth alongside others. As you enjoy this day, may you take time to reflect on what it means to have freedom, thank God for this freedom (for ourselves and for others), and pray that we would be a people who fight for this freedom for all peoples.
