Letters to the Church: Emotions and Racism Sample

Dear Leader

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 people in positions of power with the authority and influence to make a change—not just those in specific roles but influencers whose words carry weight and whose footsteps others choose to follow. They are the gatekeepers or groundbreakers, whose actions and decisions can unlock the path for others. This is a letter to the leaders.

Dear leader,

You have probably got a lot on your mind. A million different things to do, a thousand different priorities, and in the mix of it all you have the fears, doubts and worries of getting things wrong in areas that matter so much. Maybe it’s the pressure of being the only champion or the pain of being misunderstood that nags at your heart. Perhaps it could be that God is challenging you on your own posture and perspective in this area. No matter how you feel, you hold some of the keys of change; what you do or don’t do has consequences. It's a hard reality of leadership; you are often the foundation but also the ceiling of what's going on. You know the eyes of people are watching you and feel the weight of their expectation, but what is God doing in you? Where is He calling for change within you first? No one expects perfection from you, they are waiting for your engagement so what is the Father stirring in you? Where is He calling you to imitate His actions and intention in this powerful and painful arena of race? You might be scared - nervous of getting it wrong - but this I say to you, God has appointed you and He is leading you.

Every one of us can start or put out a fire with what we say and do, but when you are a leader there is an amplifier attached to you. The volume of your actions travels into the hearts of those you lead further than you might think. When it comes to the issue of race and unity, the above could not be more true. As leaders and influencers we set an example to those around us and this example should be seen in our “speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” (1 Timothy 4:12). Throughout Paul's letters to Timothy, he speaks of leadership characteristics and qualities, advising Timothy by saying “keep a close watch on yourself and on the teaching. Persist in this, for by so doing you will save both yourself and your hearers.” (1 Timothy 4:16). Leadership is a worthy calling and like Paul writes, it comes with the duty of honest and regular reflection because of the consequences for yourself and those who follow you.

As leaders we must recognise the significance of our words and actions in both their destructive and constructive potentials. We should engage with the issue of racism, assessing where we are at personally, confronting the prejudice within, and embracing humility and repentance. We need to listen and learn; Jesus was the world's greatest listener, who took time to understand and ask insightful questions to those around Him. We need to call out and champion others, especially those people who have not been afforded a fair start by society and culture. We can use our God-given authority to shape the spaces that He has called us to in ways that align to His kingdom.This is our responsibility as leaders, and as followers of Christ.

Reflection Points

To the leaders and influencers:

• Questions:
  • Where are you confronting your own issues around racism, diversity and inclusion? Are you open to challenge and honest reflection?
  • How are you educating yourself better to have a greater awareness of God’s heart and others journeys?
  • Who are you “Raising the Next” in ministry that is ethnically or culturally different to you?
• Pray for the wisdom, courage and humility to lead those around you.

To the rest of the church:

• Questions:
  • How can you support your leaders as they navigate the weight of leadership in challenging scenarios like racism?
  • How can you help those around you learn and educate themselves?
• Pray for your leaders both inside and outside the church. Also pray for the governmental leaders and influencers in your nation and those with influence.