We Are One

• Besides male and female and Jew and Gentile, what are some other categories people are divided into?

• Have you ever been put into a category you didn’t like? Explain.

There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.
Galatians 3:28

People can be put into all kinds of categories: dog or cat lovers, American or European football fans, technology lovers, or haters. Some divisions, like these, are harmless. Others, though, can cause a great deal of harm. If people use divisions to decide that some groups are more important than others, it’s called discrimination. And it goes against God’s view of his people.

The key to breaking down harmful barriers is to focus on the similarities and common ground we share. We all want friendship. We all want acceptance. We all want to find a place in this world. We all want to be safe from bullying, name-calling and stereotyping. We all want to be known for who we really are and not for who people think we are. Most importantly, we all are loved by God.

If you feel separated from someone by race or cultural background or family income level, think about the connection you have in God’s eyes and build from there. Don’t pretend differences don’t exist. Our differences are what make friendships interesting. Learning to bridge gaps with people can open our eyes to the world around us.

PRAYER
Dear God, thank you for treating all people equally. Let us remember your example in the way we treat others. Amen.