Juneteenth is a jubilant celebration — and a sacred lament

Emancipation Day celebration, June 19, 1900, in Austin, Texas. (PICA-05476, Austin History Center, Austin Public Library)

On Sunday, churchgoers will commemorate and celebrate Juneteenth during their worship services. Throughout the day there will be colorful parades, coast-to-coast music festivals, visits to historical sites, large gatherings within local communities, team sports — and plenty of barbecue.

However, many will start the day with a long-standing tradition: worship.

The Lord by Moses to Pharaoh said: