Breathing in Freedom: A Call to Justice and Unity

Episode 032 – Pentecost, Breathing & George Floyd

This is the air I breathe!

My heart broke open this week as I watched the events unfold around the murder of George Floyd, and the protests and riots that followed. At the same time, I was studying the lectionary passages for Pentecost. This is an edited version of the sermon I preached at Bridge City Community Church.

Let me be clear: In this sermon I am a white preacher speaking to white Christians about a topic that white people have to own and take action on. It might be heavy and uncomfortable… but it’s a lot less uncomfortable than 400 years of oppression. So, keep your arms and hands inside until the ride has come to a complete stop. And I promise — I’ll give you practical steps you can take.

Show Notes

• The song I referred to: This is the Air I Breathe.
• In scripture, both in Hebrew and in Greek, the word for the Holy Spirit and the word for breath is the same. Ruach in Hebrew and Pneuma in Greek.
• The well-known Pentecost passage is Acts 2.
• The lesser-known Pentecost passage is John 20:21-22.
• Jesus’ mission statement is found in Luke 4:18-19
• Steps white Christians must take to obey the Spirit’s call to anti-racism:
  • 1. Listen & Learn. An excellent reading list can be found at the end of this post.
  • 2. Interrogate Your Feelings. (I’ve got lots of posts and resources on how to work through difficult emotions. Let me know if you want support in that area.)
  • 3. Use your privilege to support and protect people of color, including your finances, your influence, your bodily safety, and your vote.
• Drew Brown, the musician, who wrote the prayer I closed with, can be found here: http://www.drewbrownmusic.com/

If you prefer, watch and share the video version on Youtube.