Diversity

At the conclusion of a recent leadership meeting I shared something that I feel God has placed in my heart concerning our church. The thought isn't fully developed within me, but it's diversity.

Diversity defined is:
1. the state or fact of being diverse; difference; unlikeness.
2. variety; multi-formity.
3. a point of difference.

There is more diversity in the church today than ever before. And this diversity must be acknowledged and openly talked about to keep unity within the body of Christ. The diversity is cultural, ethnic, political, spiritual, generational, economical, philosophical, educational, musical. I could go on.

We must determine if this diversity will be our strength, allowing us to touch the many different faces of our society. Or will we cower to our own preferences and make those who are different feel unwelcome in our places of worship. It's a great challenge to look beyond ourselves and comfort level and follow God into new places. It will take courage and selflessness.

How this turns out, only God knows. But one thing is sure, our diversity will either strengthen our efforts or divide us.