Still Preaching. Still Rising. 22 Years Later

May 25, 2003, Zoe Outreach Ministries

On May 25, 2003, while the world watched war unfold in Iraq, I stood in a small church called Zoe Outreach Ministries and, with plenty of nerves, conviction, and confidence, waged a different kind of battle. Surrounded by family and friends, I preached my first official sermon. I stood in a mixture of fear and certainty that God had something to say through me, and I was finally ready to say it. Might I add that I've gone back countless times for clarification.

That was not my first time standing in front of a congregation. I had done so plenty of times before throughout my then 38 years of life. But this time felt different. This time changed everything. This was the moment I stepped fully into the work my soul must have. I did not know what was ahead, but God did. The Universe did. And so did my ancestors

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I have never been one to obsess over astrology, but I know this: being born on October 3 makes me a Libra. We are wired for justice, harmony, and truth-telling. I also recently discovered that my preaching ministry was born during Gemini season. Gemini is ruled by Mercury, the planet of communication. Curious. Expressive. Quick-witted. And suddenly, my light-bulb moment arrives.

So, before anyone comes for me with their theological stank-eye, remember even the Magi followed a star to find Jesus. (But I digress.)

May 23, 2025, Big Mt. Zion Baptist Church

Looking back, I see how divinely and strategically God made me for this. The Libra in me seeks balance and righteousness. The Gemini season in which I preached my first sermon infuses me with bold words, wild curiosity, and a drive to speak truth that disrupts.

I do not just desire liberty and justice for all — I preach it. I teach it. I live it. And I do so in ways that comfort the afflicted and afflict the comfortable.

As I step into my 23rd year of preaching, I do so with clarity and commitment. I’ve been called to disrupt what’s easy, challenge what’s oppressive, and speak life in spaces that have tried to silence many, but particularly Black women like me.

Today, I honor my journey.

I honor every “no” that made me stronger.

I honor every “yes” that affirmed my voice.

I honor the Divine who continues to call me forward.

And I honor Me, the Disrupter.

I remain,

Rev. Dr. Sherri L. Brown Jackson, The UnMuted One