By Charles Stevens, Jr.
Lead Pastor of Transformation Church in Sacramento, California
In societies across the globe, Black individuals have played vital roles in shaping our world, contributing to science, politics, art, sports, and civil rights, among many other areas. Figures like Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Harriet Tubman, Frederick Douglass, Madam C. J. Walker, and countless others have influenced history in profound ways.
Black history also sheds a light on systemic injustices Black communities have faced, including slavery, segregation, and discrimination. Biblically, we recognize that all people are made in God’s image. This is why it is important to acknowledge the true histories of all peoples, including the plights and successes of those who have been marginalized and overlooked. This also gives us the chance to highlight the resilience, resistance, and triumphs over oppression, inspiring future generations.
Celebrating Black history helps to ensure a more complete and inclusive historical narrative. It is about telling the whole story, seeing the beauty of so many forgotten individuals, all made in God’s image.
Sankofa is a word used by the Akan people of Ghana that refers to the idea of learning from the past to move forward. I believe this is a deeply rooted principle found throughout the Bible. We see very clearly in the Scriptures how God confronts sin, our pasts, and even giants, all so we might turn toward the one in whom our hope should rest. . . .
Each year, Christians around the world take part in the season of Lent to prepare their hearts for the celebration of Easter Sunday. The first day of Lent is March 5. As part of this practice, the NAB releases daily devotionals for churches, individuals, or small groups to use.
These devotionals, written by pastors and leaders from across the NAB, are designed to help us look at the story of the cross and the larger redemptive narrative through the lens of unity. At the link below, you will find materials to help you promote the devotionals in your church or small group, as well as the first few weeks of devotionals. (The full series will be available soon.) You can also sign up for devotionals at that link.
It is only a little more than two months before Super Week 2025, a handful of annual events for key NAB leaders from across the conference. Registration for Multipliers Summit and Bonfire are open, so be sure to lock in your spot early. In addition to these two gatherings, Blue Ocean, Year of Equipping, the Missions Advisory Team, and other crucial meetings will also be taking place this week.
Click on the link below to find out more details and register. (Cost varies depending on the events you attend and whether you pay by USD or CND.)