This has been a heartbreaking week for all Americans. Witnessing the death of George Floyd in such a graphic way was both shocking and wrong. No one should die like this. Imagine your child being treated in this manner. This wrongful death has led to more unrest and division in our nation. The protests have been equally disturbing. This is not the time for debates about Republicans or Democrats, or anything that divides. This is the time to live what we profess. As Christians, we say that all men are created equal, that before Jesus we are all the same, that Christ is the great reconciler, and that he calls all people to come him. We also profess that we are to follow the two great commandments that tell us to love God and love people. Nowhere in scripture does it tell us that we should decide who is loved on the basis of race. In fact, it is quite the opposite. All means all.
I have been seeing many posts that divide. Some based on principles that may be correct, but principles can be nullified with the wrong application, approach, attitude, or words. I implore all Christians to remember that words matter and can do much deeper damage than sticks or stones. Please remember that Paul told us in Ephesians 4: "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you." Fulfilling this scripture is not easy but we are new creations in Christ, the old is passed away and behold all things have become new. I challenge every Christian to be a solution to the pain we have seen this last week.
There's an old song that says, "Lord send a revival, and let it begin in me." Let's each examine our own hearts and attitudes before we look at others. Then let's look at the church and be sure we represent Jesus and not personal preferences or prejudices. After this self-examination is complete we will be revived and prepared to be the hands of Christ to help bring healing and unity.
Therefore:
Let us unite and not divide.
Let us heal not hurt.
Let us talk about principles and not people or race.
Let us realize we are one human family and together we must become peacemakers and heal the hurts that divide us.
Let us love God and love all people unconditionally.
Pray, pray, pray!
Then go and become reconcilers in Jesus' name.
- Tom Crawford, EFC-ER Executive Director
