Understanding Our Need for Compassion and Unity
When we talk about “the depth of depravity” in simple terms, we’re really asking: how far have we, as a society, moved away from kindness, goodness, and the values we claim to hold dear? For many people who say they are Christian, this hits home. Christianity teaches love, forgiveness, and care for others. Yet, if we look around today, there’s an undeniable sense that something is off.
Turn on the news or scroll through social media, and it seems like anger, division, and negativity are everywhere. People argue over politics, beliefs, or even trivial matters. There’s a lot of hateful speech, name-calling, and a lack of empathy. Sometimes, it feels like being mean or “winning” an argument matters more than showing understanding or compassion. This isn’t just about the world outside our doors; it’s happening within communities, neighborhoods, and yes, even within churches.
What makes this even sadder is that many who claim to follow Jesus—who talked so much about loving your neighbor—look the other way or even add fuel to the fire of division and hate. God cares deeply about how we treat each other. The Bible is full of reminders to be peacemakers, to forgive, and to see the best in others. But in today’s culture, we often see the opposite: people tearing each other down, holding grudges, and spreading negativity.
Why does this happen? Part of it is human nature. Left unchecked, it’s easy to fall into selfishness or pride, to see ourselves as right and others as wrong. The internet gives everyone a platform, and sometimes it brings out our worst sides. But if we truly believe that God is concerned about these things—about the way division and hatred poison our hearts—then we have to do better.
The depth of depravity isn’t about how “bad” someone else is; it’s about recognizing that all of us can fall short. It’s about being honest with ourselves and seeing that we need to make a change, starting on the inside. It’s about bringing back kindness, listening to others, and caring—really caring—about the people around us, whether we agree with them or not.
It’s easy to talk about love and unity, but harder to live them out, especially when the world feels so divided. Yet, that’s exactly what we are called to do. Real change starts with small things: refusing to pass along gossip, choosing not to join in hateful conversations, reaching out to someone who’s different from us, and asking ourselves, “How would I want to be treated?”
At the end of the day, God’s heart breaks over division, hatred, and bitterness. If we claim to follow Him, those things should break our hearts too. The depth of depravity in our culture is serious, but it’s not hopeless. Each of us can take a step toward healing by choosing love, kindness, and unity, even when it’s hard. That’s what makes the difference—and that’s how we can show the world a better way.
Minister A Francine Green
August 2025
afrancinegreen.com 