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A NOTE FROM DAVID

 Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

 The month of February marks several significant occasions in our society. First, this month is set aside to  recognize the significant contributions made by black citizens to our country as we strive to perfect our union and live into our collective ideals. Black History Month is not only a time for us to reflect on the social,      scientific, and humanitarian contributions of black individuals, but to rattle our collective consciousness    towards what Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., calls the arc of justice. In our increasingly polarized world, those of us in the church are wise to remember the words of Paul to the church in Galatia that in Christ “there is    neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ.”

 A second occasion in February is Valentine’s Day. Valentine’s Day is a day in which couples, whether married or dating, recognize the love that has brought them together. Many people who may be single, either by choice or circumstance, can feel left out on Valentine’s Day. However, love is not only something limited to romantic relationships but is the collective impulse from God linking each of us to one another. In fact, the reminder from Paul that we are all one in Christ is truly the recognition of the love that binds us together.  Geneticists tell us that 99.9% of our genetic makeup is identical and that the remaining 0.1% genetic variation leads to our individual differences.

 Lately we have heard some strong opinions on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives from across the    political spectrum. One side proclaims that these initiatives are necessary in order to correct for previous    historical sins that have left racial and ethnic minorities in significant disadvantaged places. And, on the other side, there is the proclamation that these initiatives only reinforce our differences and perpetuate social      exclusion. In our polarized world, I would argue that there is a middle way to approach these discussions.

 I think it is fitting that this month contains both the recognition of Black History and what has become     socially known as the day to celebrate mutual love. This month, I think we are being called to celebrate our oneness as we are made in the image of God, while simultaneously honoring the creative genius of a creating God who made that 0.1% diversity for us to join together as the collective tapestry of the body of Christ.

 With Christ’s grace, peace, and love,

 David