Does God Have Favourites?

Peter said, “Now I know for certain that God doesn't show favouritism with people but treats everyone on the same basis.  It makes no difference what race of people one belongs to.  If they show deep reverence for God, and are committed to doing what's right, they are acceptable before him. Acts 10:34-35

Prejudice has always been a significant barrier in society, but now more than ever, it is alarmingly on the rise within the walls of our churches.  Many Christians feel compelled to speak out against other nations due to the ongoing political conflicts around us.  When encountering individuals from different cultures, we tend to judge them based on their political leaders' actions, rather than seeing them as individuals who have little or nothing to do with the political decisions made by their leaders.

As a teenager, I secretly watched a few James Bond movies, captivated by the allure of being an ambassador's wife on an undercover mission abroad.  I was already convinced that my future lay in the foreign field, but now I could see myself as an official representative in glamorous dresses, attending luxurious events, and mingling with fascinating officials from every corner of the globe.

When I finally embarked on my journey, reality was a stark contrast to my fantasies.  My sending was funded by the sacrificial contributions of family and friends, and my wardrobe remained simple, often dirtied by the hugs of little ones in the streets.  The grand events I had imagined were replaced by gatherings in mud huts and damp buildings with dirt floors.

However, one aspect exceeded my expectations: the incredible people I met from nearly every corner of the globe.  Though they might not have held political titles, they were the highest officials in my eyes.  Their love for God, kindness, and genuine hospitality were far more than I could ever have imagined.  The love and acceptance I found among these nationalities have been one of my greatest rewards.

All of us can agree we are in the last days as we eagerly await the return of Jesus soon.  The Bible gives us instructions on "what to do in the last days" in 1 Peter 4:8 AMPC, especially regarding how we treat different nationalities.

1. Be alert and keep a sound mind so we can pray.
2. Love each other deeply.
3. Practise hospitality to one another (those of the household of faith). [Be hospitable, be a lover of strangers, with brotherly affection for the unknown guests, the foreigners, the poor, and all others who come your way who are of Christ’s body.]

It's time to reflect on how we perceive and treat those who seem different from us.  Whether they are Christians or not, in fact, we may be the only Christian these nationalities will ever meet. Opportunities to show Christ lie at our feet daily as we walk in the aisles of our communities, grocery store or schools.

Prejudice, whether subtle or overt, undermines our Christian witness and goes contrary to everything the Bible is telling us to do in these tumultuous last days.  By following what the word says, we will find great strength as we move beyond this world's prejudices and help to speed the Lord's return.