| For 51 Years Ago In Nashville -- We Are Sorry |
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5:16 Therefore confess your sins to one another, and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man has great power in its effects.
I walked last Tuesday morning with two heroes, a mother and daughter who courageously stood for freedom and justice in Nashville 51 years ago. At 7:55 a.m. on September 9, 1957, little Lujuanda was one of three black first graders who integrated Glenn Elementary School in East Nashville in face of angry opposition.
Tuesday morning Lujuanda and her mother gathered with some of us in front of Glenn School exactly 51 years later. A few of us asked for their forgiveness and for the forgiveness of the black community for the way they were treated. They said they had forgiven everybody years ago yet they graciously accepted our apologies. Then we all joined hands as many of asked for God's forgiveness and asked for God's blessings on all of His people. Tears flowed down our cheeks and our hearts were full as we embraced one another in God's love. Then we walked together about 6 blocks to Caldwell School, where there had been some racial violence 51 years ago, and also prayed together there. Afterwards we met to talk and have refreshments. It was really inspiring to hear their stories. Lujuanda had brought a powerful DVD called, A Little Child Shall Lead Them, about the events of September 9, 1957, which we watched together. It was wonderful to make some new friends and to walk with heroes! |
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