Letters to the Church: Emotions and Racism Sample

Greetings

The New Testament contains letters from leaders of the early church addressed to individuals, communities and cities. Precious words were meticulously inked onto pages of papyrus to be read aloud challenging, encouraging and unifying believers. Flowing with the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, each letter spoke specifically to people, places and problems bringing the wisdom and revelation needed in that time. But the power of these epistles were not limited to their contexts - centuries later, we still find life in these words. When we read the letter to the church at Ephesus or listen to the writings from Paul to Timothy, we can also receive revelation, conviction and encouragement that transforms our hearts and renews our minds. Over the next 9 days, this devotional captures some of the emotions and experiences that people navigate when dealing with racism, offering an insight into some of the pain that racism causes. It does not shy away from the reality of our emotions as we know that God does not either.

The flow of the letters are inspired by David’s expressions from Psalm 22 to Psalm 25. Firstly we hear the depth of his anguish as he cries out to God is chapter 22; his pain and afflictions from those around him has worn him down. In chapter 23, he begins to speak of God’s presence as he is comforted by their relationship, seeing God as his provider and sustainer. By chapter 24, David is fixated on the nature, character and sovereignty of God. With his gaze lifted to focus on the King of Glory, David is able to praise God with a firm declaration of who He is. In awe, David’s cry changes to one of confidence asking God to guide and teach him as he declares his hope and trust in Him in Psalm 25.

In the pursuit of seeing God’s multi-ethnic kingdom on earth as it is in heaven, where there is belonging in diversity and unity abounds, there are many emotions that are experienced in conversations about racism. Emotions are layered, complicated and often combined, but we are called to love the Lord with our whole selves (Matthew 22:37) which means holding nothing back; including these emotions. Addressed to those navigating specific feelings, this devotional recognises some of the prominent emotions and positions, pointing people to the firm foundation of God’s word to help us understand how to respond. Some of the readings are lengthy as we recognised the sensitivity and importance of this topic so needed the space to start to unpack it. Certain days might not resonate with you, but we trust that every day,God will speak to you so spend this first day preparing your heart to hear these letters to the church.

Reflection Points

• Pray for compassion and conviction as you read this
• Pray for everyone that will journey through this devotional
• Invite someone (or a small group) to complete this devotional with you to discuss your own thoughts and feelings
• Questions:
  • What emotions do you feel when you think about or talk about racism?
  • What experiences have shaped these emotions?