I will admit that I watch the Super Bowl for the Onion Dip and the commercials; but I also like to watch the game. Professional athletes are remarkable, and the game last night, while a little slow moving at times, had a lot of exciting moments. The big question going into the game, however, was about the halftime show – would people watch, or would they, instead, switch of the TPUSA alternative featuring the right-wing Christian (written tongue in cheek) icon, Kid Rock? It turns out that Bad Bunny – a good, thoughtful American – broke the record for views, while the alternative did not do very well. It seems that bigotry lost – this time.
I was intrigued by how many of the commercials addressed bigotry; from racism to sexism to antisemitism, the message was clear – those companies wanted to all of us to understand that bigotry, in any form, is unacceptable. Once again, we were shown that when it comes to hate, we are two Americas. We are filled with people who might, given the chance, wear hoods and carry torches, and with people who would stand in the freezing cold holding signs calling for peace. Last night, peaceful protest against bigotry won. Today? We will see. Our president posted a racist meme/video depicting the Obamas as primates, and while most people of all political, religious, and ideological flavors were disgusted, many – including President Trump – defended the action. We are two Americas – which one are you aligned with?
I love the poster that used to hang in my office that said that bigotry is taught, and I believe this to be true. But can bigotry be cured? Is racism a mental illness that needs therapy and medication? Is antisemitism part of one’s nature, or can people change? We have seen countless numbers of people repent over their support of hateful movements and figures, but many have not. Are some people so irrational that they can’t see the truth – that they can’t understand the facts? Are some people hard-wired to be malicious? As a follower of Jesus, I believe that any person can change, but they have to choose that change. Jesus won’t force anyone to not be a bigot, but He will welcome those who choose love over hate. I hope last night’s events will be the spark that will move more people away from the darkness – before it’s too late. There is always time to repent, no matter how bigoted a person is. That is a gift from God.
Prayer – Holy God, thank You for being patient and accepting of those of us who change our lives for the better. Amen.
Today’s art is “Repentance” by Elisheva Nesis.