Jobey McGinty - May 31, 2020
Racism and Being the Neighbor: How the Good Samaritan Fuels our Compassion
On May 25, 2020, George Floyd, an African American man in Minneapolis, died under the knee of a police officer, subsequently setting off protests and calls for an end to injustice and discrimination. Though there are many aspects that are plain and simple, such as the fact that racism is a wicked sin, an affront to God and His creativity and glory, as well as a denial of God creating all men and women as equal, there is much nuanced complications just below the surface. There is much to be discussed beyond one simple sermon. However, it seems the best starting point is to take a posture of humble learning and service. In the story of the Good Samaritan, a certain lawyer aims to get himself off the hook as he considers what is required to "love your neighbor." But Jesus turns this question on its head by saying, "you, go and be the neighbor." We aren't to look the other way when it comes to others who are in pain, even if they are "not our responsibility." We can humbly set aside our right and freedom to "cross to the others side of the road" so we don't have to be bothered by their problems, or we can lay down those rights for the sake of others. There is no simple answer, nor one singular path to this progress we want to see as it pertains to racial injustice, but we certainly can't just look the other way.
Scripture References: Luke 10:25-37
