We Free
Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day, is an annual holiday observed on June 19th in the United States. It commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans and marks the day when news of their freedom reached Galveston, Texas, on June 19, 1865, more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued by President Abraham Lincoln. It signifies the end of slavery in the United States and is celebrated as a day of freedom and liberation.
Regarding the Bible and the word of God, Juneteenth does not have a direct mention or specific connection within the biblical text. However, the principles of justice, liberation, and equality that underpin Juneteenth can be seen as consistent with various teachings found in the Bible.
- Human Dignity and Equality: The Bible teaches that all human beings are created in the image of God and are therefore equal in worth and dignity (Genesis 1:27). Juneteenth celebrates the recognition and affirmation of this fundamental truth by acknowledging the freedom and equal rights of African Americans.
- Liberation and Deliverance: The Bible contains numerous stories of liberation and deliverance from oppression, such as the Israelites' exodus from slavery in Egypt (Exodus 12-14). Juneteenth similarly commemorates the liberation of African Americans from the chains of slavery.
- Justice and Compassion: The Bible consistently calls for justice and compassion for the oppressed and marginalized. It condemns the mistreatment of others and advocates for the fair treatment of all individuals (Micah 6:8, Isaiah 1:17). Juneteenth aligns with these principles by seeking justice, equality, and the recognition of the inherent value and rights of all individuals.
- Unity and Reconciliation: The Bible teaches the importance of unity and reconciliation among diverse groups of people. It emphasizes breaking down barriers and building relationships based on love, forgiveness, and understanding (Ephesians 2:14-16, Galatians 3:28). Juneteenth serves as an opportunity to promote unity, healing, and reconciliation by fostering dialogue and understanding among different racial and ethnic groups.
- Deliverance from Oppression: The Bible recounts the story of the Israelites' liberation from slavery in Egypt. It emphasizes God's desire for justice and the deliverance of the oppressed (Exodus 3:7-10). The celebration of Juneteenth reflects a similar desire for freedom from the chains of slavery and oppression.
- Love and Justice: Throughout the Scriptures, God's love and justice are interconnected. The call for justice includes the fair and equitable treatment of all people, condemning systems of oppression and discrimination (Isaiah 1:17, Micah 6:8). Juneteenth serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for justice and the pursuit of equality.
- The Prophetic Voice: In the Bible, prophets often spoke out against injustice and called for social reform. They challenged systems that oppressed the vulnerable and called for societal transformation (Isaiah 58:6-7, Amos 5:24). Juneteenth can be seen as a continuation of the prophetic voice, demanding justice and equality.
- The Ministry of Jesus: Jesus proclaimed freedom for the captives and liberation for the oppressed (Luke 4:18-19). His teachings emphasized love, compassion, and the equal worth of all individuals. Juneteenth aligns with the spirit of Christ's ministry and highlights the ongoing struggle for justice and freedom.
All Prayed Up:
Dear Heavenly Father,
We come before you today with hearts full of gratitude and remembrance as we celebrate Juneteenth, a day that marks the end of slavery and the pursuit of freedom. We thank you for the progress we have made as a nation and for the recognition of the equal worth and dignity of every human being. - In Jesus Name Amen
All Songed Up:
Juneteenth by Dan Wilson (A Nice Jazz Cut)
Until Next Time Family
I Love You
(KISS)
We FREE Family and
Be Good To One Another
