Chapters 3-4

Our human interaction with the world may lead us to stereotype and adhere to behaviors that are based on prejudices. As Cleveland points out, we often do this without even thinking about what we are doing or how it is affecting those around us. I catch myself doing this at times as well. I will see a group walking across campus and I may immediately make assumptions about that group. These assumptions not only point to the group as a whole, but to the individual members as well. This is one major problem with stereotyping. It is important to recognize that every individual is different, and just because they are part of a collective group, it doesn't mean that they all hold the exact same ideas or values. Groups are often formed to embrace similarities, but also to utilize differences. Cleveland also points out that this is a big issue within the Christian community. The body of Christ is a collective group of different believers, all with their own stories. It is crucial that we recognize that the body of Christ is all-inclusive, and that we can all be active members in it. Our stereotypes can often lead to bigger problems and unforeseen consequences.

These problems can lead us to thinking of ourselves as superior to other groups, placing ourselves on top of the spectrum. It is beneficial to recognize and define differences between individuals, but we should strive to shape them in a positive light. God has called each and every one of us to serve Him and fight for His name. We should be focused on working together and using the gifts that we have been given to influence those around us. Our stereotypes and prejudices about others can create a huge barrier that is very difficult to overcome. It is our job as Christians to eliminate these negative ideas and to embrace God and the work that He is doing. By doing this, we can fully interact in the world and learn to live a life that is centered on Christ rather than ourselves.

Chapters 1-2

Throughout my life, I have noticed and understood certain labels and how they are associated with Christians specifically. I have always wondered why there are so many different ways to live a Christian life. Through our worship, prayers, and beliefs, it seems as though everyone has something different to offer when it comes to the body of Christ. However, I have come to appreciate these differences and realize that God works in multiple ways, not just through one strict outline of how a life should be lived. As I read Cleveland's words, I could see all of these things more and more and I became very interested in the fact that Christians can be unified through our differences. Cleveland made it clear that we have specific groups that we associate with, and we often judge other groups because of their actions or beliefs. Unfortunately, this happens far too often between Christians. Our job is not to judge others or tell someone that they are worshipping God incorrectly. I think that oftentimes we create our own labels, we simply allow others to associate those labels with us. If we weren't so quick to judge others, maybe we could take a better look at ourselves and think about the things that we are doing. God has given us a task to accomplish, and our time on earth is very limited. We should be fully devoted to furthering His kingdom and sharing His word, rather than judging our brothers and sisters or thinking of ourselves as superior. In reality, God will always be the one in control. He doesn't need us at all, and yet He chooses to use us. That fact alone should be enough to convince us never to think of ourselves as superior to anyone else.

I am far from perfect, I am the first to admit that. I find my hope and peace in the fact that God has redeemed me and that I am a working member of the body of Christ. Because of His love and grace, we don't have to live this life alone. We have a real hope, and we are working towards the day when we will finally arrive in Heaven. This is a huge blessing to me, and I am always blown away by that fact when I think about it. Our time on earth is temporary, but the work that we do here is not. We should spend our time encouraging both Christians and non-Christians, and using our stories and experiences to create a bigger impact. By working together to further glorify God's name, He will be honored, which should be our ultimate goal.

I greatly appreciate the words of Cleveland, and the issues that she addresses and wrestles with. It is important that we talk about these issues and figure out ways to resolve them and allow ourselves to become better representations of Christ. Unification in Christ is a wonderful thing, and something that I am very grateful to be a part of.