So God created humans in his image,
in the image of God he created them;
male and female he created them. Genesis 1:27
There is a perspective we all need to bear in mind when we are in conflict. It can helps us to check our assumptions about a person with whom we are in conflict. It is being reminded that we are part of one humanity.
We, sometimes with difficulty, affirm that the other is a person also created in God’s image. They have feelings, anxieties, opinions and personal perspectives, just as we do. In our shared humanity we can disagree, not appreciate their actions, and still have respect for the other as a person.
We may not see eye to eye with them about a particular matter, or accept or approve of their opinions or their actions. This may be because of the nature of the conflict, our own passion about the matter and or the picture we have of the other person. Affirming our common humanity is a key step in bringing about change and creating opportunities for peace.
In Matthew’s Gospel (18:15-20) a path for conflict resolution is laid out. The context is ‘if your brother or sister sins against you’. This description assumes a family like relationship. A series of steps to be followed are laid out. If resolution is not successful then we are to: ‘let such a one be to you as a gentile and a tax collector’.
This directive needs to be understood in light of Jesus’ whole ministry. The focus of the ministry of Jesus includes gentiles and tax collectors. Jesus eats with them (Matthew 9:10), is their friend (Matthew 11:18) and stays in their houses (Luke 19:5). He calls and challenges them towards repentance and new life.
Peace, repentance, reconciliation, justice and growth in unity becomes possible when we come to the realisation that what unites us is our shared humanity (made in the image of God). We can appreciate this even when we profoundly struggle with the actions of those ‘tax collectors and gentiles’. Speaking truth out of our shared humanity is part of calling for change and repentance in ourself and in the other.
Our prayers for peace and reconciliation in situations of ongoing conflict and trauma that flow from this perspective build foundations of hope.
Rev John Gilmore
NCCA President