Our culture is permeated with racial bias. We may not be able to avoid racism, but we don’t have to accept it. If God’s kingdom is to come, and God’s will is to be done on earth as it is in heaven, things need to change.
As United Methodists, we can be agents of that transformation by changing our beliefs, changing our actions, and working to change the world. Becoming an agent of transformation includes focusing within ourselves. We need to allow God to shape our inner thoughts and attitudes toward race.
How can we transform the world?
Pray – Changing our beliefs begins with prayer. Prayer is foundational to everything we do as Christians. In addition to prayers for events of racial injustice in the news and your life, pray for God to change your heart and attitudes.
Broaden your education – It is important to include more voices in your learning. The internet is a great resource to find authors and thinkers whose racial and cultural backgrounds differ from your own. Consult multiple sources from a variety of points of view. Don’t rely on just one source to form your opinion.
Seek new relationships – There is no substitute for sharing consistent, ongoing and authentic relationships with people of every color. Forming authentic relationships may take you out of your comfort zone, but take the time to be genuine.
Additional steps you can take include…
- Changing your behavior.
- Showing up when called upon.
- Advocating for justice.