Banes S. Lal
Most Christians I've met find it difficult to discuss race and racial inequalities; moreover, this discomfort and unwillingness to talk about racism allow differences to continue.
Racial hostility and discrimination are further deep-seated than just glaring social injustices. They are also a direct slight to God, an insult to the entire human family. Racism moves directly counter to everything the Gospel represents, so as Christians, we must oppose these attitudes with every ounce of the strength God gives us.
Social equality is implied in our calling as Christians. Jesus hung on the cross to redeem men and women of every race, colour, and ethnic background. He lives to assert the infinite value of all people, despite nationality, race, social status, appearance, or abilities.
Churches are a natural atmosphere to have those conversations because of the universal teachings found in the Gospel. Communities of faith are an excellent place to discuss white privilege because the Christian doctrine has historically encouraged their followers to care for their neighbours.
As we examine this outcry for equality, and many may question whether we have lost our footing concerning who we are as Christians. It's a natural response to feel angry about the mistreatment of our brothers and sisters and fellow citizens. This a time for righteous anger. A time when children of God are robbed of their humanity and denied fundamental dignities. If you're not angry and feel a sense of profound sadness, it may be time for a soul check.
The aftershock of the death of George Floyd has reminded me of how the term "White privilege" and racial prejudices have crept into some Christian churches. Within particular churches, there has also been the held notion that it's the role of people of colour to inoculate White people about race. However, the reality is that White people must exercise the task of studying their racial identity as White people, and the influence that whiteness has had on society. White privilege doesn't necessarily make your life effortless; it just signifies your skin colour doesn't make your life as difficult in comparison to people of colour.
If we convey to ourselves, "I am not racist." Well, it probably isn't true. How many of us have internalized so much racial bias? We don't notice the evil that sits in our hearts. And yes, I'm guilty of it as well. When we make the shift from racial prejudice, then we'll have the strength to aim for and pursue peace.
Furthermore, we need to speak up against the casual racism of our friends and family. We must believe our Black brothers and sisters concerning the systemic racism they face even when we recognize that we play a role in the problem. We must advocate for real reform and real accountability when it comes to murderous acts.
Discrimination and racism exist in the church today, and we can't bury our heads in the sand and pretend it doesn't exist. While studying a particular portion from the Bible (the Mark of Cain), automatically, the person leading the study pointed out that this referenced the Black race. While providing no substantial evidence only that this race was hyper-sexual and via their dancing and lack of inhibition, they were also prone to violence. It was a gut-wrenching moment for me as I watched two elderly Black women drop their heads. The two individuals didn't return, and I wouldn't blame either one of them. What made it worse was that church leaders failed to recognize their mistake, therefore correcting this situation but decided to cover it up by stating it was biblical. On another occasion, I would hear White Christians calling Black people "reprobates" (a depraved, corrupt, or wicked person, a person rejected by God and beyond hope of salvation) due to the numerous riots in the US. Discrimination and racism exist in the church, and we can't pretend it doesn't exist.
Read Part 2 - If we say we're no better, then the leper, the lame, crying out that we were once as outcasts—our hearts than should be led by mercy with open hearts and open doors. Uncover your eyes to the world at the end of your pointy fingers. Who are we to judge? The sword was never ours to swing.
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