Thursday, September 29, 2016

September 29: Let’s Play Together!


As God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, “humility, meekness, and patience. Bear with one another and, if anyone has a complaint against another, forgive each other; just as the Lord has forgiven you, so you also must forgive. Above all, clothe yourselves with love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony. And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in the one body. And be thankful.” - Colossians 3: 12 – 15
In the current world in which we live, we’re more likely to witness or experience messages that divide the children of God from one another. These messages often encourages one to remain separated from the other at all cost, and never enter the same playground or band to play together. Sometimes this separation is due to the complexities and challenges associated with race, culture, economics, interest, fear, stigma, the clothes we wear, and yes, even the things that we might’ve received from our family of origin. Children separate from the other for a host of reasons, which prevents one from playing, singing, or dancing together with those who aren’t like them. Why is it so hard for children of our world to accept one another? Why do so many struggle with acceptance? Aren’t we made in the image of God? Are we called and challenged by Jesus Christ to show compassion and demonstrate love despite our differences? Though there are differences among the many children of the world, there are so many similarities, and those give a richness to our world and to the glory of God. Though our interest and who we are might’ve been developed through and by different experiences, ALL still belong to God. Our individual and collective identities and contributions are for the greater good of God’s world. Our children are simply precious gifts on the playground and notes and instruments in the band. Though they might sound odd, look strange and even create a noisy sound by themselves, together they produce melodies of hope. Our children can play together. Jesus wants our children to accept one another and play together as means of transforming our world by and with love.
Dear God, we ask that you remind children and adults that though we are different and unique, come in all shapes and colors, and are shaped by very different experiences, each belong to you and one another. Help us transform the world by playing together in love. In Jesus name. Amen!
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Derrick L. Perkins, M.Div.
is the father of Aliyah Perkins, Derrick L. Perkins, II, and Andrew Perkins. He’s married to Bridget Perkins. The Perkins family are all native St. Louisans. He’s currently the Senior Servant & Pastor of Centennial Christian Church (DOC) in St. Louis, MO and has served in the pastoral office for 8 almost 9 years.
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Our 2016 prayer vigil theme is Helping Our Children Heal from Violence. For more resources visit  disciplesjustice4children.org and docfamiliesandchildren.org. 

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