In the Christian world there is a dream! A dream of how God's creations are to live together in harmony with each other. Not just the human creation; but all of nature. The imagination is: That God created all there is/was to grow, and be in this world, together. That is to live in solidarity and empathy. Being aware that others are as valuable as I am. Worthy of consideration and kindness, respect and yes love.
The assumption, as followers of Jesus, is that we come to life -- to any given situation -- with the understanding that no one person, animal or plant etc. is alike or the same as the other. That we all have our own particular ways, opinions, physical features and personalities that are uniquely individual to us. And that we are all made by God to exist in the world God has given to us together. All together! Without critical assessment or rude behavior. The Apostle Paul puts it this way:
10 love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor.
However, there is a huge problem with this ideal image of the human being. We don't! We don't seem to be capable of such overall unity, respect and cooperation. There seems to be a major flaw in God's design of the human ego. So then! How is the Christian expected to level the field of living in this seemingly un-level cultural of diversely different congumeraltrion of 'other'? That Paul writes about in Roman's 12 (see below)?
9 Let love be genuine; hate what is evil, hold fast to what is good;
10 love one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honor.
11 Do not lag in zeal, be ardent in spirit, serve the Lord.
12 Rejoice in hope, be patient in suffering, persevere in prayer.
13 Contribute to the needs of the saints; extend hospitality to strangers.
14 Bless those who persecute you; bless and do not curse them.
15 Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep.
16 Live in harmony with one another; do not be haughty, but associate with the lowly; do not claim to be wiser than you are.
17 Do not repay anyone evil for evil, but take thought for what is noble in the sight of all.
18 If it is possible, so far as it depends on you, live peaceably with all.
19 Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave room for the wrath of God; for it is written, "Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord."
20 No, "if your enemies are hungry, feed them; if they are thirsty, give them something to drink; for by doing this you will heap burning coals on their heads."
21 Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good.(Romans 12:9-21)
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