Racism and Our ResponseSýnishorn

Go and Do

Knowledge is like paint: it’s only effective when applied. We all know we’re to love our neighbours as we love ourselves, but unless we apply that knowledge, nothing changes. Jesus is our great example of what it looks like, not just to know what to do, but to go ahead and do it.

The part we play in God’s story of reconciliation and redemption doesn’t have to be big to be significant. We can do for the one that which we wish to do for the many. The important thing is that we do something. Jesus ends the parable of the good Samaritan by saying, ‘Go and do likewise.’ (Luke 10:37) For us, this command means living in a way that reflects the heart of Jesus and establishes God’s Kingdom on the earth. When it comes to racism, it means we value every human being, understanding that each one is created in the image of God. It means learning to see people the way God sees them: precious, worthy, accepted, and created for significance and purpose.

The Samaritan didn’t just stop when he saw the wounded traveller; he spent a boatload of time, money, effort, and energy taking care of all the injured man’s physical needs too (Luke 10:34-35). Do a quick estimation of the number of people currently in your circle of influence. What might it cost you – tomorrow, or over the next month – to not only stop for someone who has been unjustly treated, but to meet their practical or physical needs too? How would knowing you’re a part of God’s restoration plan on earth reframe the cost?

It’s not easy or popular, but we get to follow the path of the good Samaritan. Having counted the cost, we get to be those who make a commitment to reflecting Jesus in our world. We get to love those on the fringes, open our eyes to see those needing grace, and open our arms to build bridges to bring people in, and not fences to keep people out. If we want to change the world, we first need to be willing to change ourselves. Part of the cost of loving our neighbour is being humble enough to acknowledge where we’ve got it wrong. Let’s examine our hearts, repent if necessary, pray for God’s help, and then act: ‘Go and do likewise.’

May God empower you afresh to be part of His beautiful solution to the devastation caused by racism across our planet. As He slows you down or stops you in your tracks to see and step into the suffering of others, may He give you understanding, courage, resolve, and unabating enthusiasm to see His Kingdom come. May we begin to experience the radical transformation of culture and society as we pour out love and respect on every person we have the privilege of encountering.

This plan was adapted from the series, Racism and Our Response, on RightNow Media. To find out more, visit: https://www.rightnowmedia.org/au/get-access