“Do Not Show Favouritism; Do Not Discriminate Against Some…!”

“Do Not Show Favouritism; Do Not Discriminate Against Some…!”
Not long ago a video went viral on social media. This video is a true reflection of the worst hypocrisy of our times. The video tells the story of a renowned pastor who was to take charge of a mega church. On the Sunday he was expected he disguised himself as a pauper. Christians ignored him as they hurried to church to wait for that famous person they all wanted to see and hear from. Even the ushers merely tolerated him as they showed him a backseat.
At the appropriate moment and to the chagrin of almost all worshippers he forced himself to the sanctuary and took the microphone. When he started speaking he was identified by his voice.
Sometimes I do wonder whether if Jesus were to return today in his simplicity we would even allow him a front seat in the congregation; talk less of permiting him to mount the sanctuary!
We have been so used to the ostentatious and alluring fineries of the vain world, to the extent that we honour people in our fellowships depending on the size of their pay packets, how expensive they dress and by their positions and titles. We proffer to them the best seats and offer double attention to them; meanwhile we ignore those we consider as having nothing.
Such favouritism should not take place within the circles of those who are called after Christ. When we show favouritism by discriminating against the poor, we make ourselves “judges with evil thoughts” (Jm.2:1-7).
Those who are poor in the eyes of the world are often rich in faith, because they have few things to worry about. They spend more time concentrating on the things of faith, thanking God for sustaining them. The probability of inheriting the promised kingdom is higher among the poor than the rich. Wealth is burdened by a lot of distractions that takes much of the time of its possessor. Wealth breeds arrogance and defiance. But for a few exceptions, the possessors of wealth are exploitative and are even the reason for the impoverishment of the masses.
It is not as if it is wrong to have wealth, but to show favouritism on the basis of people’s social standing should not happen among Christians.
My friend, it is good to treat every person as created in the image of God. Do not show favouritism and do not discriminate against the poor! All blood has the same colour and the same fate awaits all humanity!
Weekend prayer: Holy Spirit strengthen in me the resolve not to show favouritism or discriminate against others for any reason whatsoever. Amen!
Have a blessed weekend! Peace be with you!