Stop The Hate!

I am disheartened by the racism and violence in our society as we witness the increase of crimes against Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders around the nation and in our local community.

But I am encouraged by those who stand up for the worth and dignity of others. This past week a good Samaritan intervened to help a young Asian woman who was being assaulted at the San Jose Diridon Caltrain Station. He followed the attacker for two blocks until police were able to arrest the attacker, then charge him for attempted rape and committing a hate crime.

“You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your strength, and with all your mind, and your neighbor as yourself.” And He said to him, “You have answered rightly; do this and you will live.” But he, wanting to justify himself, said to Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” Luke 10:27-29 (NKJV)

The parable of the Good Samaritan is three-fold: (1) We are to set aside our prejudice and show love and compassion for others. (2) Our neighbor is anyone we encounter; we are all made in God's image and we are to love all of humankind as Jesus has taught. (3) We need a Savior, and He is Jesus Christ.

Last week, our VIBE youth group created space for students and mentors to share their concerns and fears, as well as their ideas for how to support and raise awareness about Asian American Pacific Islander harassment and hate crimes. Some of our Asian youth expressed anxiety and also fear for their parents and grandparents. One youth shared how he has ignored jokes about Asians that happen frequently at his high school. I too have become more vigilant and cautious walking my dog, riding my bike, and playing basketball. I am concerned about the safety of my family and community, but I have faith and trust in the Lord.

I ask that you join us in modeling for our youth anti-racist thinking and how we act in all that we do and say. And let us be filled with compassion and understanding for one another.