Last night the world witnessed a major flaw in the judicial system of the United States. We also witnessed a classic case of the have and have not. While money does not bring happiness nor can it bring back a life or save a life, it is very evident that the outcome of the Troy Davis case may have had a different turn if the family’s financial situation was different.
As a believer in Christ I saw the God factor all up, in, and around this situation. Troy Davis’s family strong and poised in the face of adversity, serves as a symbol of unity and carrying the torch for justice started by their mother.
In the midst of what appears as a travesty to what America says it stands for-Liberty and Justice for All, I believe there are some valuable lessons to be learned. Through this incident someone will come to know God and learn of a man in a similar situation-Jesus Christ. Through this occurrence someone will be moved to find their purpose of truly fighting for Liberty and Justice for All!
Here is what I learned:
1. Sacrifice-Troy Davis was sacrificed in the name of inequality and justice. Although laws gave everyone civil rights, it still does change the mind and hearts of those whose hearts are filled with greed, hate, and anger. Just as Jesus Christ lived and died, He also served as a shining example of what it means to sacrifice. In sacrifice there is growth, teachable moments and strength. The more we give up what is pleasing and pleasurable to self the more we bring God glory and strengthen ourselves.
2. Kindness-At the final seconds of Troy Davis’s life he still pronounced blessings and asked God to grant mercy to the souls of those who would take his life. He is quoted saying, “For those about to take my life, may God have mercy on your souls. May God bless your souls”. Similarly, Jesus asked God the same, within seconds of His death on the cross at Calvary.
Luke 23:34-Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
It takes an unusually strong man to request forgiveness of his killers within seconds of death. To ask the killers forgiveness is truly a testament of his character and remarkable courage. How many of us could do that?
3. Attitude- We’ve all heard it-“Attitude is everything” and this is definitely true of Troy Davis and his family. Before the delay of his execution his intelligent nephew spoke on behalf of the family. At the last hours of his life they were hopeful and affirming Troy’s freedom. Just think, if those of us who are NOT faced with this family’s situation could learn to see the bright side of everyday living despite our jobs, finances, relationships, etc. etc. imagine what God could do in our lives for His glory?
4. Stand-Many of us will never know what happen the night of the incident Troy Davis was allegedly responsible for, but even until the final seconds of his death he stood on his innocence. How many of us are taking a stand on the injustices in our community, on our job, in our nation and in the world? If we are believers we should speak boldly without fear or haste to what we see, hear and experience unjustly. Now know there is a way to do this and Jesus who was stood for all truth gives us many examples of this. Jesus’ way is peaceful, calm and love. Can’t we do the same?
5. Support-The message was heard across the world in the case of Troy Davis. France and England were even involved and encouraging our judicial leadership to reconsider the decision made in Troy Davis’s case. I was blown away by the tremendous support of people with this case. Imagine if we could come together to fight poverty, improve public education, discrimination and other injustices what would this planet we call Earth look like? Let the passion of this injustice move each of us to support causes like Amnesty International, the NAACP and others who fight for truth and justice daily. They need our prayers, time, and monies to continue the fight.
Troy Davis died at 11:08pm EST, but we can continue the fight by donating to support organizations like the Innocence Project. Join me in making a donation of $11.08 in honor of Troy Davis at http://www.innocenceproject.org
God bless the life of Troy Davis! May his legacy live on for victory, liberty, and TRUE justice for all!
To Living Royally and a Fabulous You,
Zakiya!
Ms. Queenly and Confident
Awesome post! It is unconscionable what happened yesterday. However, I hope that these unfortunate events will be a catalyst to people becoming proactively engaged in their communities.