As we celebrate black History month, I call on all Christians to remember our black brothers and sisters in public and private service in this nation and across the world. We uplift all those in Government, in the senate, in the congress, in caucauses, in the Church, in business, in the forefront of the fight for justice and equity and in all sectors of society. May God give them wisdom, perseverance, courage and boldness to speak up, stand up, walk and run for what is just and true. In their moments of distress and challenge, may God give their heart wings to soar like the eagle to higher heights. In their confrontation with evil and hatred, bias and segregation, may they lift their eyes up to the God who fights for the oppressed yet loves the oppressor. May they never lose heart until the heart cry of the fathers for a more equitable and just society be realized. Amen.