An Open Letter to Congressman Hakeem Jeffries

Dear Mr. Jeffries,

I was going to email this directly to you but your website allows that only from citizens within your district (I’m registered to vote in Virginia). That’s why this is an open letter.

I’m a traveling missionary who previously pursued a music career and still keeps an eye on what’s going on with the recording industry. Nowadays, I follow politics more closely. I believe it’s important for Americans to know what their leaders in Washington are doing. Every day I pray for politicians like yourself to make wise decisions that will benefit our nation.

Last week you commemorated the 20th anniversary of The Notorious B.I.G.’s death by displaying a picture of him on the House floor and claimed his life was “the classic embodiment of the American dream.” I can relate to you being a fan of the slain rapper since he came from your hometown of Brooklyn. For most of my life, I lived in Minnesota and grew to admire the success of Prince. Still, I never cared for the explicit lyrics in some of his songs, which are rather tame compared to what many rappers have uttered over the last three decades.  

I read online that you are a member of a fellowship called Cornerstone Baptist Church. Therefore, you’ve likely heard the gospel and hopefully received salvation. If so, then as a brother in Christ I need to remind you Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” I also read that you have two teenage sons. Do you encourage them to listen to performers like The Notorious B.I.G. whose profanity-filled lyrics glorify ungodly living? As an elected official, can you really honor a man who went to jail many times for violence and drug dealing?

My intent is not to come across as self-righteous or condemning. None of us are perfect and deserve to go to heaven. I do hope The Notorious B.I.G. got right with the Lord before he was gunned down. Either way, I pray that in the future you will carefully think about the example you’re setting for future generations by choosing to honor individuals who are making a positive difference in this life and for eternity.

Sincerely, 
Todd R. Post

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