Wednesday, April 10 — If It Weren’t for Faith

Wednesday, April 10 — If It Weren’t for Faith

Today we ponder a quote that comes from the same context as that of Nelson Mandela – the great non-violent struggle against Apartheid and all forms of injustice.  This quote comes from the South African Anglican Bishop Desmond Tutu, and is entitled, The Essence of Being Human.”

 “Africans believe in something that is difficult to render in English. We call it ubuntu, botho. It means the essence of being human. You know when it is there and when it is absent. It speaks about humaneness, gentleness, hospitality, putting yourself out on behalf of others, being vulnerable. It embraces compassion and toughness. It recognizes that my humanity is bound up in yours, for we can only be human together.” 

 “If it weren’t for faith, I would have given up long ago. I am certain lots of us would have been hate-filled and bitter. For me, the scriptures have become more and more thoroughly relevant to our situation. They speak of a God who, when you worship him, turns you around to be concerned for your neighbor. He does not tolerate a relationship with himself that excludes your neighbor.”