"My Black Christian History Wisdom of Ethiopia" (February 11)
Introduction:
Good morning, beloved brothers and sisters in Christ. Today, we embark on a journey into the depths of Scripture, exploring a captivating encounter between the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon, as recorded in 1 Kings 10:1-10.
Our theme centers around the historical and biblical significance of this encounter, highlighting the wisdom and contributions of African civilizations. Western Christians tend to emphasize Western church history and culture at the expense of the global church. Many have a cursory understanding of the Greek Orthodox tradition but know little about early Christianity in Asia and Africa. This ignorance of church history leads to more than just historical inaccuracy; it can alienate those of other nationalities and ethnicities with a false portrayal of Christianity as a European- or white-only religion.
In the dusty highlands of northern Ethiopia, a team of archaeologists recently uncovered the oldest known Christian church in sub-Saharan Africa, a find that sheds new light on one of the Old World’s most enigmatic kingdoms—and its surprisingly early conversion to Christianity. The discovery of the church and its contents confirm Ethiopian tradition that Christianity arrived at an early date in an area nearly 3,000 miles from Rome. The find suggests that the new religion spread quickly through long-distance trading networks that linked the Mediterranean via the Red Sea with Africa and South Asia, shedding fresh light on a significant era about which historians know little.
The story of the Queen of Sheba and Solomon is rooted in Solomon's divine encounter, where he humbly asked God for wisdom to govern his people. God, pleased with Solomon's request, granted him not only wisdom but also riches and fame. Thus, Solomon's reign began with great wisdom, attracting the attention of rulers from distant lands, including the Queen of Sheba. For some of us there might even be a direct line from Sheba to the Modern Ethiopian and Coptic Churches.
Move 1: Experiencing the Overflow of God's Wisdom
As the Queen of Sheba arrives at Solomon's court, she is met with grandeur and wisdom that surpass her expectations. Solomon's wisdom, bestowed upon him by God, leaves her in awe. She witnesses the overflowing abundance of divine wisdom available to those who seek it, recognizing that true wisdom comes from God. She Sees a view of God through the Man and wants to draw closer because she sees something that is beyond her normal encounter with men. She sees an overflow of reason planning, compassion, and Justice and it is tipped off with common sense,.
Move 2: The Wisdom of Cultural Exchange
The encounter between the Queen of Sheba and Solomon signifies a cultural exchange that enriches both African and Israelite civilizations. It highlights the beauty of diversity and the value of learning from one another. The Queen of Sheba, a powerful and self-assured woman, meets Solomon on her terms, challenging conventional power dynamics. In the encounter between the Queen of Sheba and King Solomon, we witness not only the meeting of two great leaders but also the convergence of two distinct cultures—Ethiopian and Israelite. While these cultures may have differed in customs, traditions, and practices, the wisdom of God remains constant and transcends cultural boundaries.
Ethiopian culture, with its rich history and traditions, was undoubtedly distinct from Israelite culture. Ethiopia, situated in the Horn of Africa, boasted a civilization that flourished long before the time of King Solomon. Its people had their customs, beliefs, and societal structures that shaped their way of life. As we reflect on the encounter between the Queen of Sheba and Solomon, let us recognize the enduring relevance of God's wisdom in our lives. Regardless of our cultural backgrounds or differences, we can all benefit from the timeless truths contained in God's word. May we seek wisdom with open hearts and minds, and may God's guidance lead us on paths of righteousness and understanding.
Lastly, we must excavate the significance of the Queen of Sheba and her lasting effect on legacy and history. She clearly made an impact on the Israelites and they clearly made an impact on her for many scholars suggest that she made have introduced the Hebrew faith and God to the Ethiopians.
Women like the Queen of Sheba are custodians of wisdom whose voices resonate with timeless relevance.
Women like this list of Black women who personified wisdom:
• Dr. Renita J. Weems
• Maya Angelou -
• Sojourner Truth -
• Angela Davis -
• Toni Morrison -
• bell hooks -
• Audre Lorde -
• Shirley Chisholm -
• Fannie Lou Hamer
• Alice Walker
• Dr. Johnnetta Betsch Cole –
• Supreme Court Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson
Just as one of my professors Rev. Dr. Weems has advocated for marginalized voices, we must heed the wisdom emanating from these Queens of government, politics, art, advocacy, science, math, education, entertainment poetry, And Supreme Judgment
I take as an illustration Dr. Maya Angelou, a celebrated Black American poet, and author, who also echoes the importance of embracing diverse cultures and learning from one another. Through her poetry and activism, Dr. Angelou inspires us to confront our struggles with courage and determination, reminding us that we are not alone in our quest for liberation.
As we reflect on the wisdom of the Queens of Sheba and the legacy of Maya Angelou, let us celebrate the richness of diversity and amplify marginalized voices. Let us stand together, rise up, and embrace the transformative power of wisdom in our lives and in the world.
In her poem "Still I Rise," Angelou proclaims her resilience in the face of adversity, declaring,
“You may shoot me with your words,
You may cut me with your eyes,
You may kill me with your hatefulness,
But still, like air, I'll rise."
These words echo across time and space, serving as a rallying cry for all who have endured oppression and injustice. Through her poetry, Angelou empowers us to confront our own struggles with courage and determination, reminding us that we are not alone in our quest for liberation.
May the wisdom of the Queens of Sheba and the legacy of Black Queens like Maya Angelou guide us as we strive for justice, equality, and unity in the body of Christ. Amen
