The Most Segregated Day of The Week
Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. said it best nearly 40 years ago, when he said “We must face the sad fact that at 11 o’clock on Sunday morning, when we stand to sing… we stand in the most segregated hour in America.”
It’s hard to believe that same statement still rings true today for both traditional “African American,” “White” Churches and others. Although the local church continues to be relevant, it is still one of the most segregated institutions in American culture.
The Church in general does not have a problem worshiping God with people who might not look like them. However, if you put a truth serum in church attendees, church staff and church leadership; church diversity is one of those uncomfortable, black elephant in the room topics that people really don’t want to discuss.
When people talk about race, diversity, or racial reconciliation, a general a non-minority response will sound something like: “I don’t have a problem with race, I don’t even pay attention” or “I voted for Obama, I have a good friend who is black, I have a pair of black boots, and I even have a colored TV.” Maybe not the last two (LOL), but you get the picture. These same type statements can be applied to: Blacks, Whites, Hispanics, Asians and Indians alike.
It’s important for the church to understand the difference between EMBRACING diversity and TOLERATING diversity. By definition, tolerating means to put up with or endure without prohibition. Embracing is to take or receive gladly, eagerly or willingly. There is a huge difference between the two and it boils down to intentionality and heart. If we are to fulfill The Great Commission and “go and make disciples of all nations”, we need to be intentional and prepare our hearts to embrace diversity.
When you look in the book of Matthew, specifically when Jesus taught his disciples to pray, let us remember two key verses: Matthew 6:9-10 “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name, your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven.” We know that heaven will not be segregated; as a matter of fact heaven will personify the beauty of diversity. Shouldn’t the church on earth be the same?
I understand the local church should be of some representation of the local community; however that does not stop the heart of the church leadership and congregation to be one that truly embraces diversity. Again, if we plan for His will to be done on earth as it is in heaven, Sunday cannot continue to be the most segregated day of the week. I’m not advocating for churches to ignore stylistic/cultural differences and try to become something that they are not. However, having hearts that intentionally embrace diversity provides a great foundation. Check your heart and check yourself!
Does church diversity suck? What are some things you’ve seen done or that you feel “The Church” needs to do to truly embrace diversity? Should this be an issue of concern or is it simply a non-issue?
