Relationships RestoredSample

 We know we were created in God’s image and are meant to treat each other so. Why is this so crucial? Because people are able to flourish when they can give and receive in relationships of mutual understanding, love, and respect. 

However, history and the news each day show that we often forget how to recognize people who are different from us as fellow image bearers of God.

Throughout history, ethnic identity has often brought conflict and tension.  In Genesis 11:1-9, we discover what happens when people seek cultural uniformity in their attempt to dominate other people groups. This is not the way it should be. 

Jesus showed us how to mix with all kinds of people, from different races, areas, and even of different faiths, no matter what others thought of them. Jesus only condemned people if they claimed to be better than their neighbors (Luke 18:9-14). 

In Genesis 10, we read about the Table of Nations and how different ethnic identities form part of God’s purposes. This shows God’s willingness to accept all people as having equal status. God has created us all to be unique. He loves diversity. This is something to celebrate! 

Diversity is about understanding and valuing our differences. It includes individual characteristics (e.g. race, gender, disability, age etc), and people’s different values, beliefs, experiences, backgrounds and behaviors. Jesus modeled for us how we can rise above prejudice and show compassion for those different to ourselves. In following him, we should love each other even across cultural and social boundaries.

Reflect: 

Consider the minorities in your community. Are they regarded as people with potential or people with huge problems? How does that align with how God regards them? 

Pray:

Lord, I praise you because your love is so great, and you desire that all would flourish. I ask that you would help me love as you do, and help me celebrate all because we are uniquely made. Amen.