Assimilation or Celebration? A Good Posture Toward Other Cultures

I often have said that as we together move toward Christ our differences disappear and we are unified in Christ because we no longer are looking at each other.

But I'm starting to doubt whether the assimilation part of that statement is really correct. The problem is that Christ loves the differences. I love the differences.

I love the white suburban home.

I love the loud urban joy of black families at a cookout.

I love the Hispanic feast that comes with music and extended family.

I love the idea of Asian peace and respect that I often see, (but have yet to experience with Asian friends, because I have not yet built such a friendship).

I love the strong faith of Arab Christians whose generosity extends beyond their apparent means.

I just don't want to lose those things. I want to celebrate them.

I think what I should be saying is that, as we draw closer to Christ, we see His image more clearly in one another, and we fall in love with each other because of His presence in us.

That's unity.

And it extends beyond assimilation.