It can be difficult for us to imagine the historical rationale for decisions like the 3/5^ths rule that counted slaves as partial persons, or the times when only property owners could vote (in other words: wealthy, white males). It sounds unconscionable from a modern vantage point. The Bible is full of stories about the Jews’ multi-century enslavement, so it is ironic to me that some people in U.S. history who professed to have Judeo-Christian values were also slave owners. Thankfully, what had been a relatively common practice slowly and painstakingly made an about-face, until it was finally outlawed.

 

Unfortunately, changing a law does not mean changing hearts. We see it every day from our local schools to faraway places in the world: people disagree, argue and even kill each other over racial, cultural and religious differences. In some regions of the world, Christians and other underrepresented religious groups are regularly under fire (sometimes, literally) for no other apparent reason than their faith.

 

These cases beg the question: What should be our attitude when we are mistreated? Matthew 5:10 (NIV) tells us: “Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” The Contemporary English Version (CEV) version puts the verse this way: “God blesses those people who are treated badly for doing right. They belong to the kingdom of heaven.”

 

I dare say that sometimes, however, we are not on the side of the persecuted. Sometimes, we are the oppressors. The good news is that God’s grace still covers us. Consider Paul’s words: “I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me trustworthy, appointing me to his service. Even though I was once a blasphemer and a persecutor and a violent man, I was shown mercy because I acted in ignorance and unbelief. The grace of our Lord was poured out on me abundantly, along with the faith and love that are in Christ Jesus” (1 Timothy 1:12-14, NIV).

 

Pray for the persecuted, and don’t be afraid to stand up for what is right.