I am captivated by the picture of the early church in Rodney Stark’s The Rise of Christianity: “Christianity attracted people from all strata of society, but particularly from among the poor and marginalized. In the Christian community, ethnic divisions were overcome, social classes mingled, and women found unprecedented opportunities. This radical inclusivity challenged the deeply entrenched social norms of the Greco-Roman world.”
To be sure, the church has not always maintained this degree of inclusivity; some may argue that it is no longer a part of the church even today. And if you are not a believer, my focus on this standard provided by Stark might seem baffling. It struck me because the Greco-Roman world represented significantly more profound prejudices and divisions than we experience in our country today. Yet, this level of inclusivity and unity was possible.
Is there a way, in a society where institutions stoke division for sport, to seek a place of unity—or at least entertain that achievement as a common goal? I am encouraged that our latest election involved the least racially polarizing electorate in 50 years. It seems that real Americans, not the caricature often portrayed by the media, could care less about skin color or ethnicity when coming together to agree on the country’s direction. Are there other areas where diverse people groups can reach a consensus?
In his vice-presidential debate, J.D. Vance offered a masterclass on the ability to speak truth while also offering a generosity of spirit to an opponent. While later mocked by pundits for his lack of aggressiveness, he effectively articulated his position in a manner that honored his opponent. Turns out it is possible to maintain values while also treating others with grace and compassion.
An eighty-four-year-old friend recently reminded me that the acrimony present in today’s political arenas did not exist when he was a younger man. We tend to forget that the bitter climate encouraged by the media does not have to be the status quo. As citizens, we can choose to model a different standard.
I pray that, whatever our beliefs, we can learn to express and defend them calmly—while also remembering to listen carefully to our neighbors, always considering how we might reach a place of unity, or at least of peace.
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