Ephesians 4:1-3 (Read it!) The result of our faith and love for Christ is most often displayed during the most challenging times. The older I get the more I find myself thinking about those who suffered persecution for the sake of our freedom. Several folks were beaten, spit on, and forced to sit at the back of busses. Some were thrown in jail and killed just so that we could have the same rights as our white brothers and sisters. Mama shared stories about her experiences during segregation. She was a maid and a cook for several years. She was not permitted to come through the front door because of her color. Yet, they trusted her to cook their food, clean their homes and help take care of their children. Although she wasn't proud of how she was treated, but her love to provide for her children out weighed her shame.
I heard a quote that said, "We often fear what we don't understand." Racism only displays our insecurities and lack of understanding of one another. Many times, our childhood environment shapes our perspective about people who don't look like us. But as we get older and grow in the grace of God, we are responsible for applying the truth of God's Word in our life. God's word does NOT say "treat people different if they do not look like you." James says, "If you show partiality you commit sin and are convicted by the law as transgressors" (James 2:9).
God created us and blessed us with the grace of "diversity." That means we were created to be different and look different. But just because we are different doesn't mean we're supposed to be separated. There must be unity in diversity especially if we are believers. Paul told the Ephesians to "bear with one another in love, endeavoring to keep the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace (Eph.4:3)." Without the Spirit of Christ, there will be no unity in diversity.
I praise God for exposing the chains of racism. Most folks agree that it still exist today. But it doesn't have to stay that way. We can have unity in diversity. All it takes is just one person to decided to change their perspective about people in their community. If you are willing to take the challenge of encouraging unity in diversity, consider the following:
Decide to love the Lord God with all your soul, heart, and strength (Mark 12:30).
Decide to love your neighbor as yourself (Mark 12:31).
Forgive those who hurt you (Mark 11:25).
Respect the differences of others without compromising your faith (Romans 14:10).
Teach your children to do the same.
For His glory...
Written by Sandra Kelley 2/22/2024
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