Reflections on Everyday Choices, Racial Resentment, and Ethical Awareness
Introduction: Moral Blindness and 2 Corinthians 4:3-4
Have you ever wondered why some injustices seem invisible to certain people, or even to ourselves? The Bible offers a powerful insight into this phenomenon in 2 Corinthians 4:3-4: “And even if our gospel is veiled, it is veiled to those who are perishing. The god of this age has blinded the minds of unbelievers, so that they cannot see the light of the gospel that displays the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.” In everyday life, this “veiling” isn’t just about spiritual matters—it can affect how we perceive right and wrong, especially in situations shaped by race, fairness, and our own interests.
Understanding Moral Blindness
Let’s put it simply: moral blindness is when we fail to recognize or respond to wrongdoing, even when it’s right in front of us. It’s not about being evil or heartless—it’s about missing the signals, often without realizing it. Spiritually, 2 Corinthians 4:3-4 speaks of being unable to see the light, and morally, it’s much the same thing: something clouds our vision, keeping us from understanding the impact of our choices.
Causes of Moral Blindness
Why do good people sometimes overlook injustice? There are several reasons:
· External Influences: Media, culture, and peer pressure can shape what we notice or ignore.
· Self-Serving Bias: We naturally want to see ourselves as fair and good, so we may overlook our own faults.
· Moral Myopia: We focus on immediate concerns—like family, finances, or personal comfort—and miss the bigger ethical picture.
· Obedience to Authority: When leaders or systems set the rules, questioning them can feel uncomfortable or risky.
· Distractions: Everyday busyness can keep us from reflecting deeply on our actions or their consequences.
Racial Resentment and Perceptions of Fairness
In America, conversations about race often reveal how moral blindness operates. Many White Americans express feelings of loss or threat, believing that their place in society is being challenged or diminished. This can foster resentment, making it harder to see the struggles or injustices faced by people of color. When fairness is viewed only through the lens of “what I deserve” or “what I’m losing,” it’s easy to miss the bigger picture of justice—one that includes everyone.
For example, debates about affirmative action, policing, or economic opportunity can become battlegrounds for these feelings. Instead of seeing policies or protests as calls for equity, some may interpret them as threats to their own status, leading to defensiveness and further moral blindness.
Questions for Reflection
To grow in moral awareness, we need to examine ourselves honestly. Consider these questions:
· When was the last time I felt uncomfortable about a racial issue—and what did I do with that discomfort?
· Do I tend to see fairness mainly through my own experiences, or do I consider others’ perspectives?
· Are there voices or stories about injustice that I avoid or dismiss?
· What influences shape my beliefs about justice and deservingness?
· Am I willing to challenge my own assumptions, even if it feels risky?
Examples of Moral Blindness
Moral blindness shows up everywhere:
· Organizations: Companies may ignore discrimination in hiring or promotions, focusing only on profits.
· Individuals: A person might overlook a friend’s racist joke, shrugging it off as “just humor.”
· Society: Laws and policies can perpetuate inequality, and citizens may remain unaware or indifferent.
· History: Slavery and segregation were once accepted as normal by many, showing how entire cultures can be morally blind.
Consequences of Moral Blindness
When we fail to see or address injustice, the costs are real: trust breaks down, communities become divided, and those who suffer are left without support. Moral blindness can also harm our own spiritual and emotional well-being, leaving us disconnected from our deepest values.
Overcoming Moral Blindness
How can we begin to see more clearly? Here are some practical steps:
· Practice Self-Awareness: Regularly reflect on your beliefs and actions. Ask yourself tough questions.
· Question Norms: Don’t accept “the way things are” without considering whether they’re just.
· Seek Dialogue: Listen to people with different backgrounds and experiences. Be open to learning.
· Draw on Faith: Pray, study scripture, and seek spiritual guidance to illuminate your moral vision.
· Take Action: Support causes, speak out, and make choices that align with justice—even in small ways.
Conclusion: Choosing to See—and Act
Moral blindness isn’t a permanent condition. Like the spiritual veil described in 2 Corinthians 4:3-4, it can be lifted when we pursue truth with open hearts. Each day offers a new chance to see injustice more clearly and to respond with courage and empathy. Let’s commit to examining our own vision, listening deeply to others, and taking steps—large and small—to make fairness and justice a reality for everyone. The next time you face a choice, ask yourself: Am I seeing the whole picture? And if not—how can I begin?
Minister A Francine Green
December 2025
afrancinegreen.com 