The COVID-19 pandemic is far from over and we have been thrust into a new storm. The wave of voices calling for change after the senseless killing of George Floyd has grown into a tidal wave of lament and protest.

In the spirit of compassion and humility, we initiated conversations with godly and respected African-American leaders. The conversations have been a transformative experience for me, I pray they are for you as well. Please feel free to forward this to anyone who may benefit from these valuable insights. 

Kevin and Trae Holland - I can't breathe. A raw and vulnerable conversation. 

Kevin and Trae lead the Turning Point Church in Los Angeles, CA, and mentor several church leaders across the country. 

We discuss in detail what the gaps are in understanding the issues, what we can do to align more closely with our African-American brothers and sisters, and how we can initiate change without losing sight of the heart of the Gospel.

Jeff Hickman The Parallel Reality of an African-American Professional.

Jeff Hickman is the co-leader of the North River Church in Atlanta. 

We discuss the "parallel realities" of a Princeton University graduate in a bi-racial marriage. His experiences, tensions, cultural challenges, and faith in the Kingdom of God as the ultimate hope for us all.

Napoleon and Andrea Greene - A Nation in Pain, What can you do? 

Napoleon and Andrea are core leaders in the Austin Christian Church. Andrea is an educator and Napoleon is an engineer. 

We discuss grief, processing as a family with three African-American children, and their decision to take compassionate and spiritual action. 

I have been a witness to a few turning points in countries all over the world. This feels like one of those turning points. May these conversations propel us into righteous action. May we not be mere spectators but catalysts of change. 

Send me a note on how these conversations have changed your thinking, I would love to hear your reaction. 
Stay tuned for more, 

I CAN'T BREATHE - KEVIN AND TRAE HOLLAND
JEFF HICKMAN - THE PARALLEL REALITY OF AN AFRICAN-AMERICAN PROFESSIONAL
NAPOLEON & ANDREA GREENE - A NATION IN PAIN, WHAT CAN YOU DO?

GREAT READ: We'll have Michael on the show in mid-June. 
Reply-To: Christian Ray Flores at Third Drive Faith cr@3rdDrive.com