The Beatitudes Overcome Racism - Part 5 of 9 (scroll down if you wish to read the series in order)
Children pout and stamp feet. It’s not fair! What about my turn? How come she gets one and I don’t?
Adults march on city streets understanding the reality of justice. No Peace Until Justice!
As a child I thought justice (fair treatment) was attainable. Eventually, just like the protesters, I
learned that:
1. Life is not fair. If I want my fair share I need to speak up or
act out, but even then “my fair share” is determined by someone else.
2. ‘Equality for everyone’ is a myth.
Growing up, I quickly realized that justice is not served equally to all
people. This reality is deeply troubling
and something I’ve struggled with my whole life.
When fuming about some mistreatment or injustice, two thoughts energize me to cope:
If you don’t like something, CHANGE IT! If you can’t change it, CHANGE YOUR ATTITUDE. (Maya Angelou)
Either way, I’m an ordinary person with no special skills. HOW do I make change happen?
The Apostle Paul encourages me: “For I can do everything with the help of Christ who gives me the strength I need.” (Philippians 4:13)
Jesus promises me: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for justice, for they will be satisfied.” (Matthew 5:6)
No Peace until Justice, claim the protesters at a march for racial justice in Ottawa this past June. How right they are! There is no peace until the disadvantaged are given the same advantages that the privileged have. There is no peace until police officers stop racial profiling of suspects and using excessive force during arrests. There is no peace until judges stop giving minorities harsher sentences compared to white criminals. Of course, the list is long to achieve justice for those who deserve it.
Now, MY feet need to hit the road. Can I be an effective ally for those who seek racial equality? An ally recognizes and uses their privilege but supports those not in the same situation. An ally listens more than speaks, educates self, sees the struggle of those who experience inequality, acts for solutions out of responsibility, not out of guilt, and builds relationships with that group. Allyship is hard work![1]
I pray: Lord, I know you want me to keep pursuing justice. Guide my steps. Exercise your power through me! Show me opportunities in my community to be a change-maker!
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