Look around you, near and far. Their lives matter (no matter who “they” are)!

American revolutionary question: If the tea tax on the Colonies was “tyranny,” what was skin-color-based slavery?

Here’s America’s great contradiction: The Founding Fathers were surrounded by and accepted slaveholding, a tyrannical abuse of power, yet they created “the separation of powers” to prevent tyranny in national government. Tyranny (not greatness) is built on bullying.

People who don’t see color, don’t notice when color-based disparities are present in a community. There is no hierarchy for human life. Value everyone with your heart, words, and actions. “Love your neighbor as yourself”

Their lives matter (no matter who “they” are). Enemy lives matter. The tiniest human lives matter. Your life matters. (Avoid self-destructive thoughts, feelings, words, and behaviors.)

The risen Jesus wants to lead His followers beyond human values and racial perceptions, so that we are no longer captives to our culture’s view points. Seek to be led by the living Jesus, not by human values and points of view. If you base your beliefs and lifestyle on the risen Jesus, you will be at odds with much that your culture teaches.

Human governments rule by coercion and compulsion. The kingdom of God rules by voluntary submission to the Spirit’s inner conviction.

Real love doesn’t have to be earned or deserved or reciprocated. If love is dependent on approval or agreement, it’s a counterfeit and will fail to obey Jesus’ command: “Love your enemies.” For example, the sad-effects of violence are often far greater than any supposed benefits.