2 Corinthians 5:19
All this is from God, who reconciled the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.
The Church has the only antidote to heal the deep wounds of racial indifference in this nation. The latest and tragic events surrounding George Floyd’s death are a reflection of the unhealed American wound of racial hatred that still is ripping communities apart. But I am convinced there is no law, policy, or governmental rulings that are strong enough to heal this 400 year old issue. The answer has always been in the hands of the church. It’s been said only a “united Church can heal a divided Nation.” Paul made it clear that it is the Father who entrusted the message and driving force of reconciliation to church leaders and followers.
And part of carrying the message of reconciliation to others is the ability to discern how not to holds people’s sins against them while not compromising our own personalized convictions. If our convictions on biblical and moral subjects isolate and segregate us away from people who look different, vote different, and believe different then how can we be salt and light in the world? The truth is we cannot legislate our way into unity. We must submit ourselves into unity. What does that look like? Here are few that have helped me build interracial friendships with others over the years:
1..Vulnerable conversations with people who look different then you.
2..Be-friending and building authentic relationship with people of different ethnic backgrounds.
3..Listening well without preconceived notions.
4..Being intentional and open
5...Quick to forgive and let go of offenses.
It is the convicting presence of Gods Spirit at work among us that reconciles us into Christ-like oneness. Submitting to another is better then devouring one another! Rise Up Church
