We all want it. It just seems overwhelming. Will an honest attempt to develop a biblical foundation for racial reconciliation help us?
Begin with God. The relational nature of the Triune God displays the beauty of unity-in-diversity. He dwells eternally as a fellowship of loving exchange. God’s essence is perpetual communion, a dynamic, self-giving community. The Father, Son, and Holy Spirit love and honor each other with such unity that they work and fellowship as one.
Embrace God’s wiring. As image-bearers, we are created to reflect the beauty of God’s unity-in-diversity in all that we do with his manifold creation. What assortment of things to explore! God has wired us to crave and create diversity. “Variety is the spice of life!”
Admit brokenness. Sin not only alienates people from God, it also separates them from one another. Confess how sin blinds and distorts your perspective on everything.
Thank God for his rescue Plan. God was pleased to have all his fullness dwell in Christ, “and through him to reconcile to himself all things, whether on earth or in heaven, making peace by the blood of his cross” (Col 1:19-20). The reconciliation of ALL things is the Plan.
Understand the Plan. Through Christ, God is now creating one new redeemed and reconciled humanity who images Christ (Eph 2:14-15; Gal 3:27-28). The new creation is not the elimination of distinctiveness, but the healing of a wounded, fractured body. The inclusion of every nation, tribe, people, and language worshipping around God’s throne (Rev 7) celebrates the supernatural healing ministry of Christ and fills creation with the glory of God.
Engage in the Plan. “All this is from God, who through Christ reconciled us to himself and gave us the ministry of reconciliation … and entrusting to us the message of reconciliation” (2 Cor 5:18-19). What would the ministry of reconciliation look like for you? How will you communicate the message of reconciliation to those around you? You could intentionally create spaces to develop transformative relationships with people who are different from you. You could practice mutuality—honoring, dignifying, supporting fairness, being hospitable, gracious, and respectful—while not expecting the same in return. You could even look for moments to speak words of healing while patiently allowing room for God’s Spirit to work. What else?
