Identify the Virtue on the Other Side
Written by Shardae Orr in partnership with the And Campaign
Just as we must remember that our political tribe of choice is not perfect, we must also reject the false notion that people on the other side of the political spectrum – or somewhere in between – are pure evil. We must learn to find virtue in our political opponents. Before you critique, know what good your opponent is trying to achieve and make sure we are addressing the best arguments on the other side, not the misrepresentations or the caricatures.
In Acts 17:26-27, Paul speaks to the people of Athens about the nature of God and humanity’s relationship with Him. He points out that all of us, across all nations and times, originate from the same source. This isn’t just a call to recognize our shared humanity; it's an invitation to see the divine purpose in our diversity and unity.
We're often characterized by our pursuit of purpose and authenticity. We thrive on connection, not just digitally, but deeply. What if we viewed our generation's diversity as part of God's master plan—a tapestry woven intricately with threads of different colors and textures, each placed purposefully?
Paul tells us that God's intention in this design is for us to seek Him, reaching out across the superficial barriers of nationality, party or period. God is nearer than we think, perhaps waiting for us in conversations we shy away from, in places we’ve marked as too far or too different.
Application:
Seek Connection: In a world that is increasingly connected, yet paradoxically isolated, make an effort to understand someone from a different background. Listen to their stories, and invest in learning what life looks like through their eyes. Each interaction adds a thread to the tapestry.
Reflect on Your Purpose: What is your place in this vast, interconnected world? How can your unique talents and experiences serve a larger, divine narrative? Spend time in prayer or meditation to explore these questions.
Break Down Barriers: Physically, emotionally, and spiritually—reach out. Whether it's volunteering for a cause you care about, joining a community group, or simply sharing your journey with others, these actions build bridges.
May the Lord help us to see the virtue in every person. May we value each person’s unique role in His grand design.
Resources
Check out the latest from Kaitlyn Schiess in Christianity Today - “The Most Important Election of Our Lifetime”
Prayer of the Week
God, you’ve sketched out a world rich with variety. You planned our moments in time and set the stage with places for each of us to shine. We’re all part of Your grand design, intricately connected, meant to search for You and find You in the most unexpected places.
In this bustling, connected world we navigate, help us to really see each other—beyond the Instagram filters and Facebook statuses. Spark in us a genuine curiosity to understand the virtues in those we scroll past and those we sit beside. Help us to appreciate resilience where we see struggle; to recognize courage where we find fear; to embrace compassion over indifference.
Open our eyes to the beauty and strength in every person we meet. Strip away the filters of judgment and expose the raw, wonderful qualities that You have planted in each of us. Let this vision move us to lift each other up, to celebrate the good loudly, and to share moments of connection that bridge our divides.
In the powerful, connecting name of Jesus, we pray, Amen