The Daily Devotional for Friday, December 8, 2023: Overcoming Prejudice

 

The Daily Devotional
Friday, December 8, 2023

Overcoming Prejudice

Nazareth! Can anything good come from there?
John 1:46a (NIV)

Nathanael's question in John 1:46, laden with skepticism about Nazareth, unveils a common human inclination: the tendency to prejudge based on background and reputation. His uncertainty about the potential of Nazareth, and consequently about Jesus, highlights a judgment rooted in origin and societal perceptions. This incident from the Gospel of John serves as a poignant reminder to address and overcome the biases we hold.

Historically, prejudice has been a persistent element in human interactions, a fact vividly illustrated in Nathanael's reaction upon learning about Jesus from Nazareth. His immediate skepticism—"Can anything good come from Nazareth?" (John 1:46)—echoes a prevalent attitude. Given that Nathanael, like Jesus, was from Galilee, he might have harbored expectations for the Messiah to arise from a more distinguished locality. The general undervaluing of Nazareth by even its fellow Galileans, due to its perceived lack of significance, underscores the depth of such prejudicial attitudes.

The story I want to share parallels this ancient bias. As a student studying abroad, James encountered a young man whose country had once been at war with his. His initial perception of me was clouded by this historical conflict. He admitted, "You’re not what I expected. I thought I’d hate you, but I don’t." His words, though seemingly harsh, were an attempt at kindness. During a class discussion, James sensed his aloofness and inquired if he had offended him. His reply was eye-opening: "Not at all.… My grandfather died in that war, and I grew up despising your people and your country. Yet, now I realize we share so much in common, and that's surprising. I see no reason why we can't be friends."

Such experiences and historical anecdotes remind us that no form of bias is too great for the transformative power of understanding and love. Nathanael's initial bias did not deter Jesus's love for him. Ultimately, Nathanael recognized Jesus's true nature, exclaiming, "You are the Son of God!" (John 1:49). This narrative emphasizes that God's love can overcome any prejudice, inspiring change and fostering connections where once there was division.

Understanding Prejudice
Prejudice often stems from our upbringing, cultural background, or personal experiences. It can manifest as preconceived notions about people based on their race, nationality, social status, or even their hometown, as in the case of Nathanael.

The Nazareth in Our Lives
Each of us might have a Nazareth—a person, place, or situation we look down upon due to ingrained biases. It might be a colleague from a different background, a neighborhood we avoid, or even a part of ourselves we undervalue. Recognizing these biases is the first step towards overcoming them.

Jesus' Response
Interestingly, Jesus doesn’t rebuke Nathanael for his prejudice. Instead, He invites Nathanael to come closer, to see and experience the truth for himself. This approach teaches us that encountering and understanding the other can be transformative.

Application
1. Identify Your Nazareth: Reflect on your own prejudices. What or who is your Nazareth?

2. Seek Understanding: Like Philip invited Nathanael, invite yourself or others to come and see beyond the surface. Engage with those you have preconceived notions about.

3. Practice Empathy: Put yourself in others' shoes. Understanding different perspectives is key to overcoming bias.

4. Pray for Openness: Ask God to open your heart and mind to see beyond human prejudices, to love as He loves.

Closing Prayer
Heavenly Father, help us to see beyond our biases and prejudices. Just as Jesus welcomed Nathanael despite his initial doubts, teach us to embrace others with love and understanding. Guide us to recognize the worth and beauty in all your creations, regardless of where they come from or how they appear. Amen.