"Two men, same problem, two different approaches."

by Amber Rogers

The difference between Kirk Franklin's call for the boycott of "TBN" versus George Bloomer's call for the boycott of "The Word Network" is all about perception. One man's call is perceived to have its genesis in his bruised ego, a blow to his perceived religious standing in the community, and is marred by allegations of the misappropriation of funds. Kurt Franklin, on the other hand, made it clear that his "call" was his battle and his stand! He did not want or need others to stand or boycott on his behalf. He told a heartwarming story and gave us the cause for his "effect." His apparent concern over the mistreatment being perpetrated upon African Americans via police brutality was laid down. There was no back-and-forth, no salacious emails, no "he said, she said" only the supported, documented, apparent truth available and verified via any news outlet. Those in leadership positions should always remember that you can catch more flies with honey than with vinegar.

The world is tired of our religious problems, misunderstandings, and divisions. They are repelled by them. When we air our business to the public on our platforms, we have to know that our enemies are attuned. Any inkling of self-righteousness, self-absorption or haughtiness will be interpreted and counted against us. The world is looking for humbleness, meekness, and accountability even if the church is accepting of much less. As Christians, when we are maligned, it becomes difficult for us to balance our walk, swallow our sense of self-importance, and "take one for the team." It is as if we failed the basic training on "how to be a soldier in the army of the Lord!" As an African American Christian, coming up against the forces of the Evangelicals, as well as a sin-sick world, it should be apparent to us that the waters have been muddied. We have to be able to drink from the cup of his suffering- be it racial, physical or spiritual oppression and keep it moving!

We are Christians first, Black men and women second! Our allegiance is not to this world or their fight. Our allegiance is in carrying the blood-stained banner! When we sit on the sidelines and sing the song of "woe is me"- "that hurt my feelings" or even sing the tune of "you're not playing fair," we only get sidelined. The poor, the racist and Injustice we will have amongst us until He returns. Activism is a beautiful thing, and it has its place, we just have to make sure that people see the issues and not us.