Something I have been hearing a lot from conservative Christians in re: to conversations about racism: "The gospel is the solution. We need to focus on the gospel."

Christians sometimes use "the gospel" the way a kid in Sunday school yells out "Jesus!", assuming it will be the

right answer 50% of the time. It's strange to see the gospel - the most precious gift and incredible message in history - be used to silence those who are trying to help us understand the injustices they face, and how we can help.

The following in not an original comparison - I've seen lots of people use it, so don't give me any credit - but I think it's really helpful.

Christians who fight against abortion: do we *only* fight abortion with the gospel?

We recognize that new life in Christ changes everything - our hearts, our eternal destiny, and our ability to say no to sin. But we also fight for the rights of the vulnerable (the unborn) by volunteering at crisis pregnancy centers, marching for life, using our vote to change

laws and policies, etc. Don't we?

Racists need the gospel (we all do), but we also fight systemic racism with our vote, our marches, our time and resources, our voice, and our actions.

To say that one problem needs the gospel + activism, but the other only needs the gospel is

inconsistent at best, and unloving and deadly at its worst. Let's do better. Let's determine to follow the 2nd greatest commandment, out of our obedience to the 1st. Those who love God with all their hearts will love their neighbors as themselves. Let's listen. Care. Act.