Racism: How Do We Change Things?

(click image for more photos)

I see a lot on social media, blogs and in the news describing the depth of racism's roots in our country. I read and see a lot of anger and hostility over racism. Statues are being torn down, removed, or moved. There are protests and counter-protests. Much of what I see and read is ugly and quite discouraging. Worse, there is little offered as a solution to the problem of racism.

At New City, we have begun a series of discussions on race. DISCUSSIONS. We have set up a time that we can talk and listen - learn from one another - share experiences. The reality is, that these discussions won't change our nation. Our hope is that they begin a process of change in the hearts and minds of some... a few... maybe a church and a larger community.

I am thankful for the willingness of our New City people to be a part of these discussions and their willingness to invite our city to be a part as well. I am thankful to those brave enough to share their stories last month.

We aren't completely sure HOW to bring about change, but we know we can't take steps forward without trying, without talking, without listening. And we also know this, the Gospel of Jesus Christ not only reconciles us to our Father, it reconciles us with one another. Jesus lived and died and was raised to bring about our racial reconciliation.

13 But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of Christ. 14 For he himself is our peace, who has made us both one and has broken down in his flesh the dividing wall of hostility 15 by abolishing the law of commandments expressed in ordinances, that he might create in himself one new man in place of the two, so making peace, 16 and might reconcile us both to God in one body through the cross, thereby killing the hostility.   Ephesians 2:13-15

Here is a link for some of the discussion.  We'll have another open discussion soon.  Pray with me that the body of Christ would live in light of the good news of Jesus, and in us the world would see a people reconciled.
Pastor Keith