For there is no distinction,
since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God
(Romans 3: 22b-23a)
What we say and then, how it is heard and understood, is not in our control. When we speak out and challenge the actions of another person, organisation or government we place ourselves in the interpretive framework of the hearer.
There are times when our words need to be strong and very clear. In these settings the opportunity we have is to clearly address a particular matter of concern without demeaning the human dignity or created-ness of the other. It is a great challenge to affirm the created-ness of the other when their actions and words are hurtful and destructive and need to be objected to.
Human unity is founded on the appreciation that we all are created in the image of God. This unity is not based on our acceptance of, or agreement with, the views, actions or conduct of the other. To accept this can be incredibly difficult when we feel strongly about a particular matter or see the suffering of people inflicted by the action of others.
The truth of our common humanity is that we are all as one, created in God’s image, and both individually and together, as one, fall short of this created reality.
What drives human unity is our common frailty and vulnerability? Our desire for community and for relationships opens the possibility of being united with others. Unity negotiated by consent or agreement is fragile. When our unity is shaped by compassion, forgiveness and grace it is strong, and our relationships grow in depth.
When we address the actions of another, face up to them and name them as wrong, we do so in the humility of our own self-awareness. St Paul writes a powerful description of this of unity, ‘since all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God’ and invites us into a common confession and realisation about ourselves and others.
Rev John Gilmore
NCCA President