The news coming out of Charlottesville, VA is horrifying. Racism is a weapon. It is life-destroying and goes against every tendency we have as moms to nurture, protect and advocate.
As we watched the news this weekend, we couldn’t help but be reminded that our rallying cry this year is Free Indeed. It is a message that comes from the mission of Jesus, who was a social revolutionary and changed all the rules by proclaiming: The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.
Moms, this is our moment to lead. May we be people who shout good news, rush to free others from racism and injustice, speak up against those who are blinded by hate and instead proclaim the way of Jesus is love. Always love. Always forgive. All are welcome. Let’s bring the full force of our innate tendencies to nurture and protect and to advocate with the ferocity of a mother bear.
If you are in disbelief, we stand with you. Racism is wrong. White supremacy is wrong. Hate is wrong. When fear and anxiety stir in your soul, may you choose to replace it with an act of love for someone. If you see the news and feel as if some of your neighbors are your enemies, respond only with love. Hate is not an option because love is our loudest voice.
MOPS is for every mom. We gather in different spaces all over the world with a message for every woman, a message that starts with Jesus. We are a movement that transcends skin color and geography because motherhood is our common denominator.
If you are a mom who is committed to saying enough is enough, you are welcome with us.
If you are a mom who needs space to grieve, you are welcome with us.
If you are a mom who needs other women who will have your back, you are welcome with us.
If you are a mom who is ready to create a better world for our collective children, we need you.
Motherhood can defeat racism.
Love,
Mandy
President and CEO of MOPS International
