Come now, let us reason together.... Is. 1:18 (ASV)
My first job out of college was as a teacher in an inner-city school. During my first year I was introduced to what was, for me, a totally new concept: the celebration of Black History Month. Every year I learned something new about black history, and to this day things come to mind that help me understand the African American culture. It is safe to say that without that experience, my understanding of African American culture, as limited as it still is, would be far less.
There is something really important about coming together to openly and honestly discuss issues that divide us. It all begins with listening to each other (really listening) so that we can begin to understand each other, which leads ultimately (with a lot of hard work) to reconciliation. As a ministry, we always focus on listening to those whom we believe God has called us to help, those individuals who find themselves in very vulnerable situations, for whatever reason. By listening, we begin to understand their situation, what led them to the place they are in, and how we might be able to help. When we understand them (and how they think), we can do a much better job of providing what is really needed, and not just what we think is needed. Forcefully sharing our perspective is never the best way to do ministry, nor is it the best way to mend relationships.
In the midst of all the turmoil in our country, what's needed most, on every side, is humility. Putting aside our needs so that we can actually listen to our hurting brothers and sisters requires us to take our eyes off ourselves. It is my prayer, and the prayer of our ministry, that we can all put our own needs (and even our opinions) aside and help others with significant needs, whether they are living next door, on the other side of town, or on the other side of the world. Please join with us in prayer for our country and for the children and families we serve in Africa.
Isaiah 1:18 reads a little differently in the New Living Translation than it does in the translation above, but I think it says what we all need to hear: Come now, let’s settle this. As the body of Christ, we have no other options.
