By Gwendolyn Hawks-Blue, World Church Diversity and Inclusion Team, co-chair
As many of you as were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is no longer Jew or Greek, there is no longer slave or free, there is no longer male and female; for all of you are one in Christ Jesus.
Society’s view of me has often been one of limitations and lower expectations. As a Black youth of African descent growing up in the USA, I saw signs that told me where I could not sit, eat, drink water, engage in recreational activities, or use the bathroom. Incidents in places of employment echoed messages of marginalization. When I held a position of leadership in Kansas City, Missouri’s City Hall, a white male visitor expressed amazement when he learned that another Black woman and I were the ones in charge of the Social Services Division. In meetings in different venues, sometimes opinions I shared were not heard and acknowledged as quickly, or at all, as similar ideas from male attendees.
Current statistics about the life experiences of people of color and women, in the USA and other countries, demonstrate marginalization and devaluing of these populations to the harmful outcome for all.
In contrast to societal practices of marginalization, those of us who choose to love as was shown by Christ become cocreators of God’s shalom. I have been the beneficiary of the actions of Christ-like lovers of humanity as well. These gracious interactions uplift and inspire me to do likewise. An on-going challenge is to love and express that love for those whose ideas and expressions toward others is not loving in the best way we can determine.
At age 26 I received what was then called a patriarchal blessing after intentionally preparing for over a decade. That experience assured me that God knows me intimately and loves me unconditionally. With as powerful an impact, I also understood from that spiritual encounter that God knows and loves all others the same.
An important message of this Galatians scripture to me is that regardless of how we show up in our expression of humanity or whatever role we may have in society, in Christ, we are one. I believe many, like me, who have experienced exclusion for whatever reasons, are filled with life-affirming joy and thanksgiving for God’s inclusive love and grace through Jesus Christ.
Prayer Phrase
“Rejoice in hope; be patient in affliction; persevere in prayer” (Romans 12:12).
Hope in the Present
Take a moment to pause and reflect on where hope is present in your life. Write down three things that give you hope. It could be a kind word from a friend, the warmth of the sun, or progress toward a goal. If you are facing difficulties, gently remind yourself: “Even now, hope is present. Even now, something new is possible.” Express gratitude for this hope knowing that each day is an opportunity for renewal.
Today’s Prayer for Peace
Engage in a daily practice of praying for peace in our world. Click here to read today’s prayer and be part of this practice of peace.