Many of us have been there… hanging out with friends and family at a 4th of July cookout, Thanksgiving dinner, or Aunt Betty’s 70th birthday party, when a beloved family member or friend shares something they read on social media or heard at a rally.
As they share, their voice begins to shake with anxiety and rage. They care deeply about the issue and are convinced of the veracity of their claims. You, on the other hand, think it sounds like dubious clickbait, a conspiracy theory, or even hate speech.
As they continue talking, you begin to sense anger, resentment, sadness, or even shame start welling up inside. If we are going to act in love in this situation, we must prepare our hearts to minister well.
Prior to gatherings like these, I encourage you to first remind yourself of Galatians 6:1-2
Brothers and sisters, if someone is caught in a sin,
you who live by the Spirit should restore that person gently.
But watch yourselves, or you also may be tempted.
Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.
When our loved ones share their conspiracies, outrageous claims, or fury-inducing statements, they reveal that they are caught in the grip of an evil force that is stirring anxiety and rage in their hearts. One of the ways we can ‘carry each other’s burdens’ is by allowing them to express their opinions and convictions without retribution, shaming, or name-calling.
While we may despise Christian Nationalism, we are called to love Christian Nationalists. To minister well, we must center our hearts on Jesus.
Prep Work
Here are some ways we can prep our hearts to minister well. I encourage you to remind yourself of these truths, perhaps even saying them quietly to yourself prior to gathering with Christian Nationalist friends or family.
- Today, I will talk with (their name), whom I love.
- Jesus loves me.
- Jesus loves (their name).
- My goal is not to defeat (their name), win arguments or shame them. My goal is to connect with their heart and share the love of Jesus with them.
- Today, I take the posture of a missionary. I will love first, serve first, and sacrifice first.
Suggested Prayer
This prayer is based on Galatians 5:22-23 and 1 Corinthians 13:4-7
Jesus, I know that you love (their name).
I pray that by the power of your Spirit, I might practice love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, and self-control today.
Give me the strength to be patient and kind, not arrogant or proud.
I pray that my words and attitude would not dishonor them.
Protect me from being angered easily or keeping a record of wrongs.
May my love for you and them allow me to delight in the truth, rest in hope and persevere in faith.
Amen.