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Q. What principles about relating to people from different ethnic backgrounds have you learned in your decade at Campus Crusade for Christ's urban ministry in Chicago?

A. Become a learner of other cultures, especially the cultures of those that God has put around you. When I first moved to Chicago's South Side, I asked African-Americans to recommend books to me. I joined a volleyball league at the local Park District, where I was the only white player. I spent time walking around the community getting to know new people.

Be intentional about building friendships cross-culturally. Good cross-cultural friendships don't happen naturally, because most people don't go out of their way to learn about those who are different. We like things that are comfortable, but we've not been called to live comfortably; rather, we've been called to love our neighbors. Make sure that friendship doesn't take place only in your world. Be willing to be a minority on their turf. This will go a long way in communicating your seriousness about building a real friendship.

Become interested in the hobbies of others and not just your own.

Acknowledge the reality of racism and the subtle or overt ways we've participated in it.

Place yourself in situations in which you're able to submit to black leadership.

Be sensitive and loving. Some people will reject you, but if you're sincere, sensitive and loving, many will be open.

Marc Henkel serves with the Agape Community Center in Roseland, on Chicago's South Side.

Adapted from: John Fuder A Heart for the City (Moody Press, Moody Bible Institute, 1993)

For your convenience, A Heart for the City is available in the ChristianityToday.com bookstore.

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Prayer for the Week

Dear Father, please remove the cataracts of insensitivity from my eyes so that I can see others with true compassion.

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