Category: Civility

Group of people standing outdoors holding lanterns in early evening

Why Discrimination and Social Division Affect Everyone

How Hate Affects Individuals and Communities Racial animosity is a deeply destructive emotion that can have far-reaching consequences for both individuals and communities. In holding onto negative feelings rooted in prejudice or bias, we not only harm ourselves but also perpetuate divisions and injustices that hinder collective progress. Understanding these harmful effects is essential in fostering a more compassionate, inclusive,…

Justice as Fairness: Gerrymandering, Voting Rights, and God’s Call for Righteousness

Justice may sound like a big word, but at its heart it means treating people fairly. In a democracy, fairness means every person’s voice should matter, every eligible voter should have a real chance to vote, and no group should be pushed aside so someone else can hold on to power.  What “Justice as Fairness” Means  Philosopher John Rawls used…

Whatever Happened to the Gospel? A Prophetic Call Back to God’s Word and God’s Ways

The Holy Spirit impressed two things deeply upon my spirit several years ago: “My people do not know My Word, nor do they know My ways,” and “Whatever happened to the gospel?” These are not light thoughts. They are a burden. They are a wake-up call. We are living in a time when many people in the body of Christ…

Understanding Nostalgia and Its Impact on Society

Reflecting on the Past to Shape a Better Future There is a growing trend in society to yearn for “the good old days”—a nostalgic pull toward earlier periods that are often idealized in memory. While nostalgia can bring comfort and a sense of belonging, it is crucial to recognize the risks involved when this longing ignores the realities of racism…

Overhead city map with red lines marking revised congressional district boundaries, labeled areas like Downtown, East Side, and North Haven

Understanding Gerrymandering: A Moral Perspective

When power twists the lines, justice is denied  Gerrymandering is not just politics as usual. It is the deliberate redrawing of voting lines so that those in power can keep power. For far too long, this has been used to weaken the voices of Black communities and block them from choosing leaders who truly represent them. That is not fairness.…

Open Bible on wooden table with candle, ink bottle, and cross in chapel

Understanding Hope in a Fallen World

A warm, faith-filled reflection on brokenness, hope, and God’s redeeming love  What Does It Mean to Live in a Fallen World?  Beloved, have you ever looked at life and wondered how a world so full of beauty can also hold so much pain? That tension is what Christians mean by a “fallen world.” We still see God’s goodness all around…

Open vintage book and brass balance scales on wooden table

Righteousness and Justice in America: What Psalm 89:14 Teaches About True National Greatness

What Psalm 89:14 Teaches Us About National Greatness in God’s Eyes  When we look around at America today, many people feel concerned, tired, and even confused. We see division, anger, distrust, political fighting, social unrest, and families and communities struggling to understand one another. In times like these, it is easy to ask, “Where are we headed?” and “What does…

Politicians and Their Responsibilities: Balancing Faith and Duty

“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.” (Proverbs 11:3)  Public Service Requires Character  Politicians should be chosen not only because they are smart, experienced, or good speakers, but also because they have character. A leader’s honesty, fairness, and values matter because their decisions affect the lives of many people. Skill is important,…

Oak tree glowing with sunlight at sunset overlooking a river and forested hills

Living in Today’s Culture: A Christian Perspective

Finding Light, Love, and True Purpose in a Fast-Paced World Living in today’s world can feel like trying to keep your balance in a river that’s rushing faster every year. Every time you turn around, there’s some new trend, debate, or opinion flooding your phone, TV, or conversations. If you’re a Christian, you might be wondering: How do I hold…