Heartbroken!

The Beatitudes Overcome Racism - Part 3 of 9 (scroll down if you wish to read the series in order) 

My heart breaks when I hear of a death due to racism. 

                Why did you have to fire your weapon when other methods could have diffused the situation?

My heart breaks when I see acts of discrimination. 

                What makes you so special that you choose to mistreat and ignore those of another race? 

My heart breaks when I read about the violence and suffering inflicted by conquerors and colonizers. 

                Why did you think that you had the right to satisfy your greed and ego at others’ expense?

But I, too, am not immune from racial transgressions.  Since the tragic death of George Floyd on May 25, 2020, my mind is opening to new ideas.  I didn’t think I was a racist.  But now, I’m learning about things I do and say that are considered racist.  In particular – microaggressions such as: 

1. To immigrants learning my language I say, “Your English is so good.”  (Thinking, incorrectly, that I am encouraging their English-speaking skills, but, in fact, implying that even though their English is good, they are still not like me, a person who was born in Canada.) 

2. I will move to the other side of the road when I see big, tough-looking men of another race.  (Thinking, incorrectly, that these men are like the criminals I see on TV and in movies, but, in fact, criminal behavior is not limited to certain physical characteristics.) 

3. “I’m color-blind,” I say, dismissing your skin color as unimportant as I get to know you.  (Thinking, incorrectly, that your race is not part of your story, but, in fact, it is the baseline for your story.) 

My heart breaks for my racial transgressions.  Forgive me, Lord.  Forgive me, friends.

Why am I so discouraged?  Why is my heart so sad?  

Jesus, you say, “Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.” 

How will you comfort me, Lord? 

“I say to you:
I know your heart; I stitch the broken pieces together with love.   
I know your thoughts; I forgive your sins. 
I know your words; I place words of grace on your tongue.  
I know your actions; I give you the desire and power to do what pleases me.” 

Wow!  This is comforting!  I will put my hope in you!  I will praise you, my Savior and my God!  Thank you, Lord that even in my sorrow, your blessings of strength, comfort, and wisdom mend my heart. 

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Scripture References: Psalm 42:11; Matthew 5:4; Psalm 139:1, Isaiah 61:1, Galatians 5:22; Psalm 139:2, Luke 7:48; Psalm 139:4, James 4:6, 2 Samuel 23:2; Psalm 139:3, Phil 2:13; Psalm 42:11.