By Rev. Ossie X. McKinney
Director of Research and Administration, Outreach and Growth Consultant, CBF Decatur, Georgia
“But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” – Jeremiah 29:7 NRSVUE
We grew up hearing, or have at least encountered, the story of Cinderella—the stepdaughter who is mistreated and denied the privileges of her stepsisters. As children, we may have wondered: “Why is the stepmother so cruel? What has Cinderella done to deserve this treatment?” Although Cinderella works hard, doing her best, her efforts are ignored. Outside the house, others
would never suspect this cruelty. Life appears sweet for the stepmother and stepsisters, who disregard Cinderella’s reality. And so, Cinderella’s life story remains unheard.
This fairy tale, surprisingly, reflects the experience of many marginalized people in America today. Those who experience exclusion and injustice—much like Cinderella—often have their narratives dismissed. When they speak of barriers or inequities, society responds as if they’re imagining things, saying, “You have the same opportunities as everyone else.” But while invitations to participate may be extended in name, the resources to fully engage—a ride, clothing, support—are withheld. Like Cinderella, marginalized communities
are sometimes left with mere fragments of opportunity, hoping for a “fairy godmother” to make what should already be possible a reality.
But unlike in fairy tales, change doesn’t come through magic alone. There is no fairy godmother who will simply fix it. Prayers and hopes are valuable, but God calls us to go beyond wishful thinking. In Jeremiah 29:7, we are told, “Seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you, for in its welfare you will find your welfare.” We are called to actively work for justice, not just hope for it.
Reflection: Where are we allowing inequality to persist, content to let others struggle in silence? How can we be more intentional in seeking justice, not waiting for a miracle, but choosing to be part of the solution? Let us seek the welfare of all in our communities, ensuring everyone has what they need to thrive.
Prayer: God of justice, open our eyes to the disparities around us. Let us not wait for miracles, but use us as instruments of change. Help us work toward a world where everyone has an equal chance to live in dignity and opportunity. In Your name, we pray. Amen.
JUSTICE NOT
Exploring Shared Language for Justice
As we strive to seek the welfare of all, it is vital to establish a shared language and understanding around racial equity and inclusion. To aid this effort, we are excited to include a resource developed by Kimberly Freeman Brown, a highly regarded racial justice, equity, and inclusion consultant. Her glossary, Conversation Starter Concepts, offers foundational concepts designed to inspire organizations to create their own shared language and deeper
understanding of equity and justice. This live document provides definitions, encourages self-reflection, and fosters meaningful dialogue. You can access it here: Conversation Starter Concepts
About Kimberly Freeman Brown
Kimberly Freeman Brown brings a decade of experience as a consultant and senior advisor on racial justice, equity and inclusion to nonprofit organizations, faith-based communities and local governments. Her expertise has been sought in areas ranging from racial and gender equity initiatives to crisis management and organizational transformation. Kimberly has also partnered with faith communities, including the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, to explore ways of amplifying prophetic voices on racial reconciliation and integrating equity and inclusion into theircultures.
We are honored to feature Kimberly’s work in this devotional resource, as her glossary represents an invaluable resource for fostering understanding and promoting justice. As you reflect on the themes of Jeremiah 29:7, 11, and the devotional above, we invite you to explore this resource as a way to actively participate in creating a more equitable world.