The Pain of Division: A Call to Lament and Unity
As believers, we all long for a church that reflects the beauty of unity and diversity. However, the harsh reality is that the American church is still marred by deep ethnic divisions. The lingering effects of slavery, segregation, and systemic racism have created a chasm of pain and distrust between different racial groups.
A Complex Problem
The issue of racial reconciliation is complex and multifaceted. It’s not just about individuals; it’s about systems, institutions, and cultures that perpetuate division. The media landscape, social networks, and even our own churches can often fossilize our divisions, making it difficult to build bridges across ethnic fault lines.
The Fear of Discussing Race
Many of us are nervous about discussing racial reconciliation because we don’t know what to say or fear saying the wrong thing. We retreat from hard conversations, and the division deepens. When brothers and sisters are wounded by racial insensitivity or mistreatment, they may not know how to express their hurt without being misunderstood or marginalized.
A Vision for Unity
But what if we could take a step towards healing and unity? In the book of Romans, Paul calls the church to a bigger vision: “May the God of endurance and encouragement grant you to live in such harmony with one another, in accord with Christ Jesus, that together you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ.”
Lament: A Place to Begin
Lament is where we can begin. By acknowledging and expressing our pain, frustration, and sorrow, we can create a common language for productive, God-honoring conversations about race. Christianity looks stunning to the world when our identity and unity in the gospel are more foundational than any other identity, including our ethnicity.
A Prayerful Journey
I’m inviting you to join me on a prayerful journey of lament and unity. Let’s weep together, seeking God’s heart and guidance as we navigate the complexities of racial reconciliation. May our broken world see the beauty of a diverse and united church, reflecting the unity of the triune Godhead.
A Call to Action
Will you join me in this journey? Let’s start by praying together:
“O Lord, how long will your church be divided along racial lines? How long will the lingering effects of animosity, injustice, and pride mark your blessed bride? We believe the gospel is greater than our divisions. God, grant us the heart to weep with those who weep. Give us empathy and understanding. Create trust where there is pain. Make your church the united bride you want her to be.”
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