Monster of racism
The “monster" of racism is on the prowl, and constantly stalks the alleys and freeways of life. Throughout the pages of history, this “monster” has sometimes worn white hoods or black jackboots. While some societies tried to manage the “monster,” none ever eradicated him.
At first, he may appear to be normal. He buys burgers at the local restaurant and shops for apples at the market. But underneath this routine veneer can lurk the horror of hatred, bigotry, and xenophobia!
Did you know that various ethnic groups define racism differently? Few can even agree on the definition, much less the remedy. However, the Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines racism as “a belief that race is the primary determinant of human traits and capacities and that racial differences produce an inherent superiority of a particular race.”
Bottom line: Racism is a sin. It is wrong, divisive, and is in direct opposition to everything that the Gospel of Jesus Christ represents. Jesus suffered and died on the Cross to save every nation and race on earth. It matters not your skin color or native tongue, God loves you equally, and sent His only begotten Son for you.
Recently, George Floyd was viciously murdered in Minneapolis. No one should die like that. I sorrow over this detestable killing and declare that it is totally contrary to the truth of God’s Word. “Anyone who hates a brother or sister is in the darkness and walks around in the darkness. They do not know where they are going, because the darkness has blinded them (1 John 2:11).” I am praying for the family and friends of George Floyd, and for our country. May God help us.
One more thought for your consideration. While I vehemently oppose most of the ramblings of 19th Century philosopher Friedrich Nietzsche, on one point he fulfilled the idiom, “if you shoot enough arrows at a target, eventually you will hit it.” Nietzsche said, “Whoever fights monsters should see to it that in the process he does not become a monster. And if you gaze long enough into an abyss, the abyss will gaze back into you.”
Friends, racism is a “monster” that must be eradicated. But in the process, let us not become “monsters” ourselves. Romans 12:21 states, “Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good.” Proverbs 16:32 states, “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city.”
Jesus said in Luke 6:27, “But I say to you who hear: Love your enemies, do good to those who hate you.” And again in Matthew 5:44, “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.”
Will you join with me in prayer for our great nation?