Racial empathy (Part 2)

This is Part 2 of a discussion begun last week on racial empathy. You can (re-)read Part 1 here: Convoy blog-empathy-part-1
 
Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.  –Galatians 6:7-8 (NIV)
 
Racial slurs - too many to count. White men in department stores rubbing his "nappy little head" and his uncle telling him not to say anything because "that's just the way it is". White women with baby strollers crossing the street a half block ahead to avoid looking him in the eye. Assumptions that he was getting a promotion in order to fulfill a quota, not because of his master's degree, his years of experience, or his proven professional expertise. Getting pulled over every few weeks because suspicions were aroused when he drove too fast or too slow or in the wrong neighborhood. Having to warn his sons about walking in the wrong part of town at the wrong time of day in the wrong type of clothing - "Never wear a hoodie and never keep your hands in your pockets, no matter how cold it is." Never knowing if a police officer was the good guy or the bad guy.

Unfortunately, many are not able to smile, shake their heads, and let it roll off, as my friend was usually able to do. The result has been a tragic story, repeated far too many times over far too many years. It's fair to say that many of the black victims in these cases have not been model citizens. And it's fair to say that many, when challenged, reacted in ways that put them at greater risk of harm. But it's also fair to say that many of us would probably also be a bit wary, a bit suspicious, a bit defensive if we were walking in those same shoes. 

Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.  –Galatians 6:9-10 (NIV)
 
And that's what I would ask us all to do - including myself. Walk in those shoes. See things from the perspective of the other guy. Engage the conversation. Step into the pain, not in a condescending or patronizing way, but in a way that says, "I see you. I know you're hurting. I care. I want to understand. I'll walk this path with you if you want." When you see ignorance, be gracious but bold in offering a different perspective. Love your neighbor.
 
We live in a fallen world. The enemy sows seeds of chaos and destruction into hearts that are already hurting and skeptical. We will have plenty of chances to bump into each other and those encounters are bound to be clunky and awkward at times. But with God's grace and the Spirit of Christ inside us, maybe, just maybe, we can sow some better seeds of our own. Heads up, eyes open, men.
 
Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.  –Proverbs 3:27 (NIV)