Such beautiful words. Such a simple concept. “Let there be peace on earth, and let it begin with me.” The world can be so overwhelming. The never-ending struggles in the Middle East. Violence against women worldwide. School shootings across America. Dismissive attitudes of sexual harassment, sexual assault, and rape. There is so much wrong in the world that the easy answer would be to throw my hands up in the air and give up without even trying to make the world a better place. I can’t eradicate misogyny, or racism, or homophobia, or any type of hatred in my lifetime, so why should I even bother.
But that attitude is selfish and not worthy for a daughter of God. Just because I can’t change the entire world overnight doesn’t mean I can’t change my part of the world in my lifetime.
As human beings, especially as Christians, we have a responsibility to change the culture around us. We have a responsibility to call out misogyny, homophobia, racism, xenophobia, classism, and other forms of oppression or hatred. We have a responsibility to treat all human beings as equal, as Image Bearers of God, as human beings worthy of love and compassion.
I believe in a more egalitarian society, one in which we celebrate our differences, but live among each other with peace and understanding. As a Christian feminist with a passion for gender equality, I feel called to work in my corner of the world–whether that be South Carolina, France, Ohio, or even just the Internet–to improve the lives of women. I know I’m not perfect, and I know I’ll stumble along the way. I know I can’t do everything and be everywhere all at once, but I can contribute to a global community of feminists who are all trying to make their corner of the world just a little brighter. I can’t make the world a better place on my own, but I can with God by my side.
Tell me. How is God working through you?
Not at all the normal sort of thing I read, but I love this. I had a very similar discussion with my husband just the other day. I am relentlessly optimistic and strongly believe that everyone can make a difference. What is a crowd after all but a group of individuals.
It is also very refreshing to see you include homophobia in your list of the worlds wrongs. I am so often disappointed by the rhetoric I hear and read from Christian friends and acquaintances. I look forward to reading more that you have to share. Thanks
Thank you! Personally, I’m a strange blend of cynical and optimistic. I believe in the potential and innate goodness of human beings, but I also question the motives of all good acts. Too much time spent in marketing/PR.
I feel the same way about some Christian friends. The Bible’s ultimate message is one of Love. Why would a Christian choose to focus on a few poorly-translated and removed of historical context passages to justify their hatred of an oppressed group of people?
Amen to that!
Hmmm…very interesting way of looking at it. One thing I’ve tried to focus more on is changing is myself. I find that when I just be the best person I can be, people start to have questions and perhaps they are inspired to change or be better. Many mindsets, perspectives, -isms and the like are a compilation of many things that make up who a person is and where they are right now in their journey. I do my best not to really dwell on that. I just try to demonstrate love towards everyone, guard my own heart, do what is right and that is it. Thanks for sharing this with us at the Creative Style Linkup.
Yes, I’ve been thinking the same thing! While I’m not afraid to use my voice to speak out against misogyny and other forms of hatred (and I try to use my influence to amplify the voices of marginalized peoples), I also spend time analyzing my own prejudices in order to improve myself. I’m far from a perfect Christian or feminist, but I’m constantly trying to be a better at both.
I think the Philippians quote is my favorite! Thanks for sharing all of these, Britta.
I too hope to speak up for those who are belittled and oppressed. I hope when I see a chance I will be brave enough to do it.
I absolutely love those quotes and that scripture! Each one of us can be God’s hands and feet!!! The body is created of all parts that are part of His Purpose. And I love that there are the hands and feet of God everywhere!!!
Beautifully written, Brita! I just love your heart and the purpose behind this post. It’s so important that we do what we can to spread God’s word and make the world a better place!