Today I received a very heartfelt and thought-provoking email from a female, African-American educator in Richmond who is currently conducting a study on “God and the Confederacy.” Her query was an offer to open up a dialogue between the both of us to discuss the faith of the South's Confederate heroes, as well as the spiritual dilemma surrounding secession, slavery, and how the Lord may have used them for His purpose.

Her email was very touching from one devout believer to another and she stated that: “While interests and perspectives may differ, we share Christ and all His benefits. As a Christian sister, I want to know your heart (my brother's heart) concerning the idea of any discrepancy between men of faith like Robert E. Lee; Stonewall Jackson; and J. E. B Stuart, fighting for the cause of the Confederacy while believing on the Lord Jesus Christ.”

Needless to say I immediately wrote her a lengthy reply, offering my support in any way, and inviting her to initiate the discussion. I also explained that although I am primarily a Confederate historian, I am by no means an apologist and I fully recognize the moral conflict that existed in the hearts and minds of of these Christian soldiers.

The irony of this exciting project is that the teacher found me through another academic's blog that has been known to criticize my work from time-to-time. She was apparently impressed with the way that I defended myself as a Christian, and she tracked me down via Google. Obviously we were meant to connect, as I no longer visit that blog and/or participate in online debates anymore. Thank the Lord for ‘Archives.’

I’ll let you know how our conversations go and what spawns from it. It will be a blessing indeed to exchange opinions and perspectives, with a fellow believer. This is a perfect example how people of faith can come together across all social, political, and racial boundaries to learn more about each other’s point of view and ultimately become closer together in the Body of Christ. Stay tuned.

UPDATE: We have been sharing some very lengthy and insightful email conversations. I am hoping to quote some of them here in the near future. This discussion will be ongoing as time permits and I'll be sure to let you know what comes of it. She is looking at writing a book on this examination into how slavery and the Confederacy fit into the Lord's purpose.