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How can I reach out to people who differ from me in habits, faith, culture, or race?
Focus on what you have in common-a need for Christ.
2 Corinthians 5:16-21
What Christ accomplished on the cross not only affects your relationship with God, but also your relationships with others. Paul says, "We regard no one according to the flesh" (5:16). The transformation that took place in us at conversion was something like spiritual eye surgery. The fog is lifted! Because Christ forgives us, we're able to view others with generosity instead of judgment. Further, God gives you the "ministry of reconciliation" (5:18). That reconciliation comes through relationship with Jesus Christ.
And if Christ reached out to you (despite your different culture and race, not to mention your sin), you shouldn't feel threatened by different kinds of people (5:19). You at least have sin in common—the profound leveler of all human differences! If you reach out to people with the understanding of what you have in common (a need for God's forgiveness), the differences will seem far less daunting. (See also John 4:4-26; Romans 3:21-31; Galatians 3:26-29; Colossians 4:2-6.)
Good Words to Remember:
If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. 2 Corinthians 5:17
Today's Challenge:
Make a new friend. Try something simple—like a smile or a warm greeting for starters.
Copyright © 2003 by the author or Christianity Today International/Christian Bible Studies.
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