Culture: the customs, civilisation, and achievements of a particular time or people.
Today there is a lot going on in the world. And with media being louder and more diverse than ever before, there is a huge “consciousness” around issues that were never thought of or addressed ten years ago. Whether it’s political unrest, terrorism, social reform or the many-faced issue of injustice – we have found ourselves engaging with a world of opinions that all stem from very different experiences and cultures.
You could say, therefore, that culture is changing – for everyone. Save for the few tribes out on the islands and in deep rainforest, our customs, civility and civilisation and achievements are very different to the generation that came before. That is why it is very important to recognise that time plays as much of a role in culture as ethnic origin and geography does. And times are changing – so culture is as well.
Another interesting perspective on culture can be found in the dictionary. Other than the definition, most of the other descriptions have to do with cultivation. A culture is not “in your blood”. It is something that is nurtured and taught as you grow. I have seen many people in different parts of the world fighting for the preservation of their culture, when – in fact – the “global community” that has been created through the internet and cheaper travel has made it impossible to preserve it 100%. Don’t get me wrong – our culture is important. There is so much good in how I have grown up and how I identify with others that are similar. But there is also so much good in the culture of someone in Greece or Peru as well.
No “culture” is wrong. It might not be fair. It might not be functional. But it is not wrong. The moment you label a whole culture as something, you are judging people on the basis of how they were “cultivated” or raised. I don’t know about you, but I couldn’t choose my family, my circumstances or my values as a child. Even if I had the opportunity, I would have no idea what to do.
You might struggle with what I just said, but can I propose that there is a better way. Jesus referred to it more than anything else in His teaching… God created us unique. He strategically placed us where we are and is working at this very moment to grow you for good. Jesus was part of that plan – to grow us all in a different kind of culture. A culture of God’s Kingdom. It doesn’t matter what context you find yourself in. Whether you were set up for a win, or have had to fight your way to be alive today, God wants you to grow and learn and cultivate customs, civilisation and achievements that will be eternal – irrespective of time or people.
This would mean making God’s opinion louder than the consensus on Facebook. This would mean addressing the root of problems rather than the problem itself – as Jesus did to the frustration of many in his day. This would mean thinking bigger than the boundaries of nation, race, or history. This would mean freedom from unhealthy practices that are robbing generations of their prosperity. This would mean the celebration of all people no matter their creed, opinion, or history. This would mean praying is the first response – before any reaction.
I believe it is truly only God that can change us. He can make the hardest heart receptive and the tensest situations fruitful. We will do all we can to answer the cry of injustice, but I can guarantee you it matters more to Him than to anyone else. God cares. He cares about our world. He cares about our nations. He cares about your people. He cares about your family. He cares about your circumstance. He cares about your potential. He cares about you. If you would like to see how Jesus can transform your life and use you to transform your world, make a commitment below.