Restart: Compassion and JusticeSample

DIFFERENCES Paul lived in a rigidly structured society. A person’s birth defined everything: status, family life and even his job. While there was some room for movement (for instance, a slave could become free), most people’s lives were set from the time they were born. Jesus’ death and resurrection provided the means for a new way of life. Believers could “put on” this new life and become part of a new, extended family. The early Church did not abolish a person’s identity—Jews were still Jews, slaves still beholden to their masters, women still obliged to fill their limited roles within the community—but new roles and opportunities opened up for everyone who was part of God’s family. In a special way, all were now equal. So we see the radical nature of Christianity: no room for racism, classism or sexism. There is only the family—each member being a part of the body of Christ, having a different function and having his or her own identity, yet all clothed by God’s love. How does the status of a believer compare with the status into which one was born? How does one “put on” Christ? Find ways of reaching out to others in your church community. Where is the bridge-building going to start? How can you help it along? Pray for those in your church who are fearful of change and distrustful of people different from themselves. Pray for those who’ve been excluded or made to feel unwelcome. Pray: Lord, you don’t want anyone left out of your family. Keep us united so that the world will turn and worship you.