Racing...

WOW…Don Sterling sure caused a ruckus with his racist comments to his ex-girlfriend.  It was good to see the NBA react within the full extent of its power, and now the owners seem to be marching in unison in their attempt to have Mr Sterling stripped of his franchise.

Of course there are many who have written striking essays in light of this event about the lingering effects of racism that continues to exist in America.  We don't need another blog that piles it on Mr Sterling, or somehow casts a broad shadow on the nature of race relations in our country.  Nor are we looking for an easy out such as, 'All are sinners who have fallen short of the glory of God.'  So what does this whole affair say about our world?

Perhaps it is a story of redemption.  It doesn't seem as if Mr Sterling is looking for redemption or that he  is even repentant for his sins.  Perhaps there is something bigger here.  Perhaps the story is that it doesn't end with all sides slinging arrows at one another, but for the most part, all are in agreement that the goal is not to pick sides but to acknowledge that the only way forward is to acknowledge that we are 'one.'

Maybe it is a lesson we in the church might learn.  We are so quick to point out the faults of those who believe differently than us.  We are so quick to pick sides when confronted by the difficult social issues.  We are so sure we know that we are right that we rarely give credence to competing claims.   Maybe we can take a page from this affair; if color of skin or ethnic origin doesn't make us a devil, perhaps our beliefs don't either.

Now I am not so simplistic to believe that we can 'all just get along' or that there aren't some really whacko folks out there promoting religions of violence and hatred.  Yes the world is made up of all kinds, but within reason, might we look for our common ground rather than seeking out that which divides.  Maybe if the NBA can attempt to deal with racism, perhaps we in the church can deal with the divide of orthodoxy.  Or to put it another way, can God redeem the heretics in our midst?

Peace,
Pal