Racism doesn’t exist because of social differences, but rather because sin exists. A simple definition of racism is: Prejudice, discrimination, and antagonism against someone of a different race based on the belief that one race is superior.

The first step to racial reconciliation is awareness in order to face the pain. This allows us to address the problem and seek healing. Jesus never turned a blind eye to pain and suffering, but instead came to specifically address them. Jesus said, “For judgment I have come into this world, so that the blind will see and those who see will become blind” (John 9:39). Guilt doesn’t positively transform or change someone’s life, but empathy brings it into perspective and allows us to address the sin.

Secondly, we have to value all people. The Genesis account of creation makes it clear that mankind was created in the image of God (Genesis 1:26-27). When God assigned mankind dominion over his creation, this did not include other humans. God gave humans infinite value, dignity, and worth when he declared them to bear his image.  Psalm 8:3-6 states that the creation of man is the crowning glory of God’s creation. Mankind’s Imago Dei (Image of God) is the biblical foundation on which racism is condemned.

Lastly, we have to walk in unity.  In a prayer that occurred shortly before being crucified, Jesus asked his Father, “that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you. May they also be in us so that the world may believe that you have sent me” (John 17:21). Jesus wanted all believers to be united, and our unity to send a direct message to the world that Jesus was sent by God and that people would know that they are loved. The apostle Paul also connects reconciliation with a message of unity that is based on the blood of Christ in Ephesians 2:16. Jesus paid with his life to reconcile us to God and to each other.

We must realize that Jesus’ provision to unite is greater than the enemy’s agenda to divide, and we see this clearly displayed in Revelation 7:9 which details a picture of widespread diversity in heaven. As we continue our pursuit for complete unity in Christ, here are five practical steps towards racial reconciliation.

1. Live with the lens that all people are created in the image of God.

2. Meditate on the cross, and the price paid by Christ for our unity.

3. Invite people of different backgrounds into your life.

4. Ask the Lord to search your heart for any racial bias or division.

5. Pray for the healing of our nation.