Will You Be My Neighbor?Намуна

In our world today, there is more discrimination against race, gender, social class, and etc than there has ever been before. When we become aware of this treatment of others, we usually try to think of ideas to possibly stop these situations. While there are many ideas that can help us get closer to the end of discrimination, ultimately there is only one way -- Jesus. Jesus’s love is what breaks down prejudices against others in our hearts, and His love working through us will help bring people closer together. 

In Matthew 5, Jesus calls us “The light of the world.” How can we be a light? By using the voice God has given us to show love to others and to stand up for what is right. This requires us to step out of our own comfort zones and stepping in to help our neighbor who may be different from us. If that requires bringing attention to issues that most people ignore, I encourage you to do it! If that requires you to stand up against discrimination, stand for and stand with those who are being mistreated! If it comes to you having to speak for people who feel as if they don’t have a voice, speak up for them and encourage them to speak as well! The devil’s greatest desire is division, so he is going to try everything he can to divide us. 

The good news is that, not only has Jesus called us to live in unity, but He has also told us ways we can do that. The first step is being humble and willing to put aside your own prejudices against others. Ephesians 4:2 encourages us to be humble and patient with others. The second step is being quick to listen to others and to seek to understand how others perceive situations differently from you. Instead of quickly making judgments based on your own thoughts, slow down and consider another perspective. (See James 1:19-20) The last is working to find ways to come together with other people, and living in harmony with them. Romans 12:16-18 tells us to do everything we can to live in peace with others. Jesus has given us the tools for living in unity with those who are different from us all throughout the Bible, but it is up to us to listen and put them to practice. God created diversity for unity, He did not create discrimination; and He calls us to love everyone just like He loves us.

Action Item: Ask yourself this question today, “Are my thoughts and actions towards others the way that God designed them to be?“ If they aren’t, pray and ask God to shape your heart and align it with His so you can see people through His eyes rather than your own. If they are, then still pray and ask God to continue to help you view His people in the way that He does. Remember it requires humility, open eyes/ears, and especially, a willing heart. Write a prayer asking God to give you humility and the courage to stand for what’s right.