Prayer Intentions: A Prayer for an End to Racial Bias
Each month, Secretum Meum Mihi will highlight a particular area worthy of intense intercession.
LORD, we pray:
* for all Americans to combat the evil of racism in our country on both an individual and corporate basis;
* for all people to understand more intentionally the ways that racism deprives our society of talent and energy, and deters all of us from discovering our full worth;
* for an end to the scourge of inner city violence, which disproportionately affects persons of color and their families;
* for the healing of those persons bound by the demons of alcoholism, substance abuse and poverty;
* for the complete repentance of those who engage in religious hatred and hate crimes of any kind; and
* for those who knowingly or unknowingly contribute to the perpetuation of racism, that they might be enlightened and repent.
AMEN.
During my studies at Wesley Theological Seminary, I learned that I was a racist. I wasn’t wearing a white sheet, nor was I spouting neo-Nazi trash talk. But I did not understand how my experience as a white woman was different from the experiences of my brothers and sisters of other ethnic backgrounds. I am not certain yet that I do understand completely. Careful listening taught me that African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, and Native Americans are people first, and ethnic minorities second.
The difference I missed was subtle, but important. I rarely am questioned about my credentials or worthiness. This is a luxury that people of color cannot rely upon. Racial slurs and intimidation still happen, in addition to honest misunderstandings and complacency with the status quo that impedes race relations even more. Jesus calls us to meet new persons and new situations mindful of the full dignity of all His children. If we seek Him in others, we can then receive the fullness of His gifts found in each soul we might encounter.