Living Without Prejudices is Difficult
Nicodemus...asked, "Our law does not judge people without first giving them a hearing to find out what they are doing, does it?" John 7:51
Nouwen invites us to take an honest look at how we are when we encounter the other who is different from us. We may say that we see the other with a completely open mind, but all too often there are "spontaneous thoughts, uncensored words and knee-jerk reactions which reveal that our prejudices are still there."
Take some time today to be honest about human behavior or characteristics that trigger YOUR fear, discomfort, suspicion or hostility. It may be somebody's clothing, hair do, or piercings. What about their language or their accent? Consider something even more practical -- how many times do you label somebody a certain way as you observe how they drive their car?
Yes, it is challenging to overcome prejudices. But it is impossible to overcome them if you deny that they exist.
Prayer: Dear and loving God, help me to see others the way you see them--precious and beloved.
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