I start this article with recognition of the fact that we live in a good world amid bad people, evil people, selfish people and mean-spirited people.

The word of God declares in Psalm 24:7: “The earth is the Lord’s; and the fullness thereof; the world and they that dwell therein.”

So on the knowledge of the word of God and his faithfulness, this is a good world.

Let’s observe some evidence of this claim. The fruit trees are still bearing fruit, fig, apple, orange and grape vines, pecan and so on.

The sun is always shining somewhere in and on this world.

The stars and moon continue to shine.

The clouds continue to give rain and snow.

The air every living thing breathes continues to be divinely, proportionally mixed with oxygen and other essentials for life.

Malachi 3:6 says, “For I am the Lord, I change not. The God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob is the only true, awesome and sure God!

I write this letter with sadness because it seems to me, for some people, no matter how much good one as an African-American does, some among us find faults and accuse.

I am speaking out in reference to a letter published against Judge Lillie Blackmon Sanders, who I believe in and support that she is doing an impeccable and awesome job in her craft.

It is amazing that so much hate is leveled against her, and I truly believe at this moment in time, there are those plotting to smear her name and good character in this city.

But be it known, the African-American community stands behind Judge Sanders. We are prepared to go all the way to the Mississippi and U.S. Supreme Courts if necessary.

We refuse to remain silent while some castigate and berate people of color in leadership positions and elected officials.

For too long, we African-Americans have been dogged, made fun of, dehumanized and kicked around like a tin can down a dusty road. Enough is enough.

Fannie Lou Hammer, a civil rights pioneer from the Mississippi Delta, said it well I’m sick and tired of being sick and tired — mistreated.

Finally the word of God speaks out of the pages of history.

Galatians 6:7 says: “Do no be deceived, God is not mocked; for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he reap.”

Hebrews 10:30 says: “For we know Him that hath said, vengeance belongeth unto me, I will recompense, saith the Lord.

Hebrews 10:31 says: “It is a fearful thing to fall into the hands of the living God.”

Say it loud, peace be unto all and power to the people.

 

The Rev. Clifton Marvel

pastor, Macedonia Baptist Church

first vice president of the NAACP, Natchez branch