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Point of Reference
by Fred Price
The concept of diversity means different things to different people and I guess that’s natural since by its very definition it embraces things that are varied or different. To diversify, then, involves the enhancement of opportunity by adding or changing the status quo, possibly merely presenting something in a new way. Divergence however, calls for exchanging a commonly held viewpoint for a new and different one altogether; at times creating discomfort and alarm throughout society, including the church.
Our nation, as many others, is made up of a number of different people groups. Every white person’s ancestry is European, blacks are African-descended, and many Hispanics trace their origins to Spain through Central and South America. The only truly indigenous people to North America are the Indians and there is evidence they migrated here from elsewhere too. In truth, we are a diverse nation ethnically and ideologically. The trouble arises when our ideals, beliefs and practices diverge into those deemed inconsistent with the pattern established at our founding and considered crucial to our continued success as a people. Since our inception we have expended much time and effort trying to create a single-minded people from many people groups with varied agendas and expectations. For we can’t survive as a loose grouping of polarized people, each maintaining a separate and distinct identity from everyone else while cooperating only on those things that seem to impact us all. Honoring one’s heritage and celebrating a culture is fine, as long as in the end we become one people; sharing our differences, joining our strengths and creating a whole from many varied parts.
This is particularly true of the church as we attempt to incorporate rich and poor, young and old, male and female perspectives into our worship services. In trying to accommodate all the different personalities and preferences striving to make themselves heard, we often struggle – sometimes we fight. What we must realize is that no one should or realistically can force their will on others, even if it is in an attempt at bringing about true worship. Some things are right while others are wrong – period. But with other things, it’s often personal preference and tradition – and that requires some room to maneuver. Dealing with personalities can be hugely difficult, lending itself to tremendous success and horrific failure. It is absolutely essential for all of us to realize that no one can do – or have – it all; moderating our expectations of others as well as ourselves. Differing personalities, abilities and experiences allow us to reach out and impact a wider range of people lost in the world. Some people I just don’t understand and can’t relate to while others don’t know where I’m coming from, yet some have already experienced what I’m going through and can respond to those needs. That’s the beauty of Christian diversity – unity! Paul dealt with this as an issue of concern as well as a reason for rejoicing. In listing the various talents and abilities people are blessed with – and expected to use – he always emphasized the over-riding purpose in our being so blessed. “…to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of Christ.” Ephesians 4:11-13None of us should say, ‘Because I’ve had this experience – I don’t fit in.’ or ‘Because you’ve done that, you aren’t welcome.’ (Although this mustn’t be viewed as a means of discounting sin or excusing bad behavior.) Diversity shouldn’t be a thing to be feared or a tool of exclusion; instead it can become an inclusive tool that encourages unity through shared responsibility. The Psalmist said it well when he declared, “How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity.” Psalm 133:1 That is certainly true whether it be a nuclear family or the household of God; the Bible addressing the issue of our interactions with others within and without the church repeatedly.
Such as when Paul wrote, “If you have any encouragement from being united with Christ, if any comfort from his love, if any fellowship with the Spirit, if any tenderness and compassion, then make my joy complete by being like-minded, having the same love, being one in spirit and purpose. Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others. Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ Jesus…” Philippians 2:1-5 “Therefore, as God’s chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience. Bear with each other and forgive whatever grievances you may have against one another. Forgive as the Lord forgave you. And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in unity.” Colossians 3:12-14
Check back next week as we continue to discover strength in our diversity.
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Fred Price - married (50 years), father of two grown children, grandfather of six.
Fred retired earlier this year after 42 years as a factory worker. He has always had a heart for young people and the challenges they face today. Over the years Fred has taught Discipleship Groups for High School and college students.
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