Letters to the Church: Emotions and Racism Намуна

Dear Advocate

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 some people whose eyes are attentive to the injustice of racism, whose ears are awakened to the cry of the oppressed, and whose heart compassionately beats, desiring a change in this area. They recognise that their own reality is far removed from those that others face, but they do not use this as a reason to disengage or stay silent. They choose to stand alongside those who are hurt by the insidious sin of racism, this is a letter to the advocates.

Dear advocate,

There are many injustices in this world but racism deeply offends you. The plight of those whose race, colour or caste is deemed inferior is something you choose to rally against. You see the beauty in God’s diverse design; you acknowledge the dignity given to all and you recognise the value that Christ placed on each person. Your empathy has moved you to act so have done and continue to do the work of challenging yourself and identifying your own embedded stereotypes, you regularly check your motives and behaviours to make sure your decisions are not performative. You did not create the systems but you are aware of how they may unfairly favour you, so you seek justice and pursue equity. Continuously challenging any discomfort you may feel in conversations about race, it’s not easy when people try to make you feel guilty for something you have not done.You witness the hurt that people face and worry that your words will not be enough, that you don’t know enough or question what difference you can really make. There is so much to think about and even more to get done, but this I say to you; this is what you were called to do.

“Bear one another's burdens, and so fulfil the law of Christ” (Galatians 6:2) “An advocate is someone who pleads another’s cause, who helps another by defending or comforting him.” The rise in conversations about social justice has introduced many voices stating what advocacy or allyship should look like. Advocacy can be expressed in different ways such as; influencing policy and practice (like Queen Esther), intercession (like the persistent widow - Luke 18:1-8), taking action and rallying others to join you (like Nehemiah), influencing or petitioning those in power (like Moses), or confronting wrongdoers (like Nathan - 2 Samuel 12:1-9). These stories of old can inspire our actions, but our posture and attitude in advocacy should be inspired by Jesus, our Advocate.

Our Saviour is the One who stepped in; taking off His heavenly robe, He put on earthly garments to meet us in our need. He shouldered our sin and burdens modelling what it means to be an advocate. In His example, we see that Jesus’ actions were rooted in love and marked by obedience to God and yours should too. Love must continue to drive you; not guilt, and not fear. Love and compassion will keep your motives pure as you comfort those God has called you to. Continue to listen to and see the need and shine the light on injustice around you. Continue to fear God, not man, choosing obedience as you speak out against racism.

As you serve those around you, remember that you are not their saviour; you do not need to have all the words to say, give guarantees or answers. Though you cannot take their hurt away, you can always point them to the One who can. As they navigate their experiences and emotions, stand with them, pray with them, weep, mourn and laugh with them - your presence in their pain speaks volumes. “And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-24) God sees your willingness and there is a reward for your compassion.

Reflection Points

To the advocates:

• Reflect on the motives for your advocacy - is it rooted in fear of God or fear of man?
• Consider how to inspire the next generation or others around you with your passion for advocacy
• Pray about the points above.

To the rest of the church:

• Consider how you can become more of an advocate against racism - do any of the Biblical examples of advocacy in today’s devotional inspire you?
• Pray and put a plan in place to see how you can serve those who are hurting or have been affected by the injustice of racism
• Consider if you can support anti-racism initiatives or advocates around you - financially, practically, in prayer?