Which Lives Matter?

I've been asking myself, lately, "Why are we arguing over bumper stickers?"  Given the chaos we live in today, is there really nothing else to direct our energy toward?  And why does the argument irk me so?

So yes, I deliberately waited several weeks before posting this observation, because emotions were so raw, many friends of mine were seemingly stirring this pot, and I wanted to be sure I was attuned to the Holy Spirit on the matter.

We hear one person say, "Black lives matter."  Another answers, "All lives matter!"  One group shouts, "Black lives matter!"  Another demands, "All lives matter!"

But is it really an either/or?  Why can't both be true?

The Bible speaks to this issue and settled the matter 2000 years ago.  In the 3rd chapter of John, verse 16, it is written:

"For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life."

Our lives, regardless of race or ethnicity, are so valuable, that Christ gave His own life so that we might have salvation, if one but asks Him and accepts the free gift He offers us.  That said, in light of the infinite value that God Himself places on all persons, does it not follow that both statements are equally true?  Perhaps Christians need to redirect the conversation.  To what end do we waste any time arguing and cajoling others about who's got the better bumper sticker slogan?

I do wish that were the end of it.  But unfortunately, there is a caveat.

In the politically-charged times we live in, it is difficult - if not impossible - to separate the phrase "Black lives matter" from the political organization that goes by the same name.  Many of the political goals of the organization's founders and its statement of beliefs are antithetical to the Christian worldview to which I espouse.  That in itself is a topic for another day, but I urge you to do your own homework.

The use of this phrase has been transformed into a radical political purity test in many corners - a bridge too far for me.  But, despite the fact that I avoid using the phrase or acronym (BLM), I do recognize that the Scriptures have clearly spoken on the value of each individual life.

So which lives do matter?  In closing I quote the earliest song I have remembrance learning as a toddler, "Red and yellow, black and white, they are precious in His sight.  Jesus loves the little children of the world."