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"For [Christ] is our peace; in his flesh he has made both groups into
one and has broken down the dividing wall, that is, the hostility between us. He
has abolished the law with its commandments and ordinances, that he might create
in himself one new humanity in place of the two, thus making peace, and might
reconcile both groups to God in one body through the cross, thus putting to
death that hostility through it."
This is just one of many biblical texts on the topic of unity
within God's family. In Christ all that could or did separate us has been
abolished. Through Christ's atoning death, God destroyed the things that would
separate us. In Christ our differences are not intended to be our dividers. All
God's people, in all our diversity, are good before God. We should rejoice in
our differences and open our hearts and minds to the beauty that lies within
each one of us. We must learn to speak, listen, and celebrate one another's
gifts.
As we commit to living in accordance with our purpose
statement, we must realize that racism does exist. The Bible calls us to do what
we can to battle this evil. Racism separates us from God's vision and plan for
us. It is not possible to live God's justice without living the love God has for
all people. Women of the ELCA is making a difference. Educators all across the
United States are presenting events and distributing materials, in accordance
with God's word, to promote healing and wholeness in our church, the society,
and the world. What can you do to assist in our battle against racism?
Offering prayer: Dear Lord, we thank you for all the
blessings that we have in our lives. We ask your blessing on all the dedicated
women who serve you through the many mission areas of Women of the ELCA. May
your Holy Spirit continue to give them guidance, strength, and courage through
the pain and ridicule, the questions and answers, and the tears and laughter.
Amen.
Offering focus: Your offerings support Women of the
ELCA's anti-racism programming materials and events.
Laurie Nelson serves as an upstate New York Women of the
ELCA anti-racism educator.
Scripture quotations are from the New Revised Standard Version (NRSV) Bible,
copyright © 1989 by the Division of Christian Education
of the National Council of Churches of Christ in the USA, and are used by permission. All rights reserved.
 Copyright ©
2007 Women of the ELCA. All rights reserved.
May be reproduced for use in congregations of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in
America provided the copyright information above appears on every copy with
these words: Used with permission.
For all other purposes
contact Women of the ELCA.
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