No Labels, But Tables

The Rev. Dr. Sigrid Rother

Allied Person of Faith and Pastor

Quote

“He went on his way rejoicing.”

-Acts 8:39 (NRSV)

Devotion

Labels are everywhere. Labels tell us what something is, or what is inside, or what ingredients are used. Without a label, a clear bottle may be filled with clear water, bleach, or pure alcohol.

Labels are important. They help categorize objects but become dangerous when used on people. During the 3^rd Reich, the Nazi party used more than 30 symbols and colors to label individuals. People were not seen as individuals but only by the label they wore: six different colors and patterns were used to categorize, shame, and criminalize others. It was a system of control, dehumanization, and hate.

Thankfully, people are no longer required to wear these identification badges.

Nevertheless, many are still using internal prejudices and labels. Throughout the centuries and across various cultures, people have used labels to categorize individuals into “us” and “them.” These labels are not used on the outside of clothing, but people have been and still are divided over whom it is acceptable to socialize with and whom it is not.

As followers of Jesus, we are called to see people, not labels. Jesus urges us to bridge divides and reach out to those others might exclude, across social, racial, and sexual borders.

In Acts 8:26-39, Philip is directed in a vision to travel along a wilderness road where he will meet a wealthy Ethiopian eunuch riding in his carriage. We don’t know the man’s name; he is only identified by his sexuality, social status, and country of origin. Due to his identity, he is prohibited from participating in all religious activities at the Temple. He reads Scripture on his own, but does not understand it, so he asks Philip for clarification. Philip responds, but we don’t know exactly what he says. He rides with the Eunuch, though we don’t know how long they spend together. What we do know is that Philip disregards societal opinions and crosses racial and sexual boundaries. His actions demonstrate that labels do not define us; they are human constructs. God’s love is what truly matters. What defines us is God’s love, not human-made labels.

Because of Philips’ words and actions of love, the stranger who was defined only by labels, was transformed and ‘went on his way rejoicing’ (Acts 8:39).

This bible story reminds me to check the labels I use for others. This story also reminds me to see beyond what other people think or say about others and to reach out. This story also reminds me of God’s love for all people. There is no distinction of who is in or who is out, there is no division of who deserves more or less love, there are no labels: only God’s unconditional love to all, regardless of what other people call you or what labels they use for you.

As Christians, we are not defined by labels, but by Christ’s table where all are invited to taste God’s goodness, love, and new life.

Reflection

1. How do your words and actions include people whom others exclude?

2. How do your words and actions inspire others to rejoice?

3. How does your faith and belonging to a faith community make you rejoice?

Action

If you are part of a (faith) community, how do you advocate for inclusivity and diversity?