The insidious nature of racism is what makes it difficult for people to see and understand. Often unintentionally we can send subliminal yet clear messages that racism should not be mentioned or discussed (MSC Stand Up Against Racism Initiative, October 9, 2020). However, does the lack of engagement really do us any good? By not studying the prophecies of Daniel and Revelation, does that make the coming of Jesus less apparent? I hope you believe it will not. By no means are we purporting that it should overwhelmingly consume all of your family time or activities. On the contrary, it should not be dismissed or summed up as one of those unraveling fates of end time prophecy that do not require our attention. It is at our home we learn about God's love and how we should love others. These are formative beliefs that shape how we live. The issue of racism challenges our belief system, hence the conversation of racism, more so, the call to action to deal with this issue must take place at home. The following are resources for approaching racism with God-directed inspiration and guidance.
For love's sake:
Read Seth Pierce's book "Seeking an Understanding" to gain an understanding about communication on difficult issues.
Often unintentionally, adults send subliminal, but very clear, messages to children that race and racism is not to be discussed or even mentioned. To change the racial inequities that exist, we must talk about the differences in humanity with our kids, including the social injustices currently happening in our communities (MSC Stand Up Against Racism Initiative, October 6, 2020, mscstandupagainstracism@gmail.com). Our goal is to help children understand their uniqueness as it relates to skin color, culture, birthplace, religion etc., how it can affect them or others in society, and most importantly, encourage their response as followers of Christ.
To be effective, these conversations must be frequent and explicit, in unmistakable terms that children understand (MSC Stand Up Against Racism Initiative, October 6, 2020). The following are helpful resources for approaching this topic with your family. It is focused on those who care for children. Critical conversations about social injustice must occur in the home, church, and all foundational institutions, if we want to ensure that our youth have the right beliefs about themselves, the world they live in, and the world to come.
For love's sake:
We are living in unprecedented times when we are called to be the sermons we preach. In our society where so many people are hurting and suffering senseless losses and devastation, we as Christians have a responsibility to reach them with the hope found in Jesus Christ. In our frailty, our past tells of instances where we did not always handle social issues well and paid the penalty for that. No more can we be silent on these issues, or turn a blind eye, or dig a hole in the sand and bury our heads. Especially when the victims are members of the family of God.
Through the For Love's Sake Challenge, we are trying to mobilize our church to become unified, to achieve His mission, educate us on societal ills as well as to encourage us to commit to take appropriate actions to combat these issues. This marks the last day of information being disseminated for this challenge. However, our call to action is still necessary. Why is this important? (1) Our representation of the Gospel is at stake (2) The very purpose we call ourselves a church is being questioned (3) Our church's mission makes this important.
We thank you for taking the time to educate yourself and observe this challenge. Now the last heed is for us to come together and move forward, celebrating Diversity and Inclusion.
For Love's Sake:
Mission: Loving and guiding all men to honor Jesus, to love our families and serve our churches and communities.
Meeting: Once a month on Saturday afternoon, focused on sharing experiences, studying God's Word, and prayerfully supporting one another. Learn about our next meeting by contacting us koinonia@
As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another.
Mission: Loving and guiding all children to follow Christ and live as Christians at home, school and at play.
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Mission: Building Families of Faith that Know Jesus, Grow in Jesus and Go be like Jesus