My pastor says we live in the "vanilla ghetto". It is bordered by areas of heavy urban population and a very large migrant worker population.
In my last post I mentioned being at the DMV and noticing all the spanish speakers. I think my first thought was, "Wow! Is this America or did I take a wrong turn into Latin America?" Then I really kicked myself and decided not to continue that line of thinking.
Ever since I was a pre-teen when my best friend in whole world was Jose Lara, I have a heart for latinos. I like their food, their family orientation, their music, their "ethos".
I see us walk by them in stores, get angry because they don't speak our language, and generally just look down on them. I'd love to say these are not God's people acting this way, but we all know better. I think it is easier to evangelize or help another color or people group when we get on a plane and find them in their native environment. Perhaps it is safer for us to minister to them there and then go back to our surroundings and put it away until next time.
Don't be fooled with my hyperbole...I am as guilty or more so than the rest. My particular form of separatism may seem holier in my eyes than everyone else's issues. You know the bible talks about our obsession with the splinter in another's eye while we have a plank in ours.
I'm not sure how to overcome my "blessed assurance" and get into living out my feelings for these folks that seem to tug at my heart. Prayer can illuminate paths or change my inertia. I'll work on that.
Buenos Noches!
Comments
Apr. 10, 2006 - Hi Honey!
Posted by julie
I sure love you! Thanks for "jumping in" the blogosphere! Can't wait to read more of your writings...you have a gift!
Your faithful,
julie
Apr. 10, 2006 - Welcome to BLOGLAND
Posted by Heidistjohn
Hey, heard about your from a lovely lady who seem to think you're great! :)
My hubby and I are sitting here reading your blog. God has given you a heart for PEOPLE, and you seem to reflect the heart of the Father for His own. Loved your post.
Keep 'em coming!
stjohn and co
www.firstclassclarkcounty.org
Apr. 11, 2006 - Welcome to paternal blogville!
Posted by Garrisongang
It's nice to see another dad jumping on here. I'm sure you will soon feel it necessary to join the HSB Paternal Alliance. I'm a displaced Hoosier who has been living in the UK for 20 years. I work in missions, getting Christian classics translated into languages and dialects that don't have much Christian material of their own. I liked your last blog. I wrote a devotional on my ministry's devotional blog on "Selective Love". We're not really allowed to pick and choose who we love, but it's easier to say than do. Thanks for the challenge. I'm glad to see you decided to see if the boat would sail.
Apr. 11, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by jayfromcleveland
DUDE! WHADDUP? You're wife said someone should ask you to join the Paternal Alliance? Well, here's your invite!
Apr. 13, 2006 - Untitled Comment
Posted by JenIG
interesting post; glad to see you here at HSB!
:) jen