We find ourselves in a world that is increasingly divided. Politics are polarizing. Arguments over race, equality and choice are more heated each day. Religion draws lines of separation between people, rather than uniting them. It is time for us to make a change. It is time to value each other over our own opinions, and fight for unity.
While there are no two humans anywhere in the world that are the same, we are more alike than we are different. Research has shown that at the genetic level, we are 99.9% identical to ever other person on the planet, no matter what race we are, what color our skin, or what ethnic background we come from. We truly are just one race. The human race.
In 1960, Martin Luther King, Jr. said that Sunday morning was the most segregated hour in America, and it still is today. Each Sunday, we gather in our chosen houses of worship, surrounded by people who think like us. When was the last time you gathered with Christians who dress, pray, or worship differently? The body of Christ is fragmented, but we can change that.
Our society praises independence and individuality. The idea of valuing others over ourselves is counter-cultural. This is the model of love that Jesus gave us. Putting others first is how we show love to the world. Following Jesus’ footsteps means going against the grain. It may mean sacrificing your comfort, or your ideals. It may even mean giving up your rights to serve others.
We are bombarded daily with a flood of opinions and emotions through our social media feeds. Anger and outrage on every topic are freely spoken. Often these words are too hurtful to be said directly to a person, yet are posted publicly for the world to read and draw their own conclusions. This deepens the divide between people with differing views, pushing families and communities apart. Consider if you are part of the problem.
You can be part of the solution to division in your community. Commit to speaking only kind words, no matter who you are speaking to. Determine to value others, even those who have different values. Seek opportunities to know people and their stories. Back up your beliefs with action by serving your family, your church body, and your community.
