I don’t know if you’ve watched the film Hidden Figures, but if you haven’t – do yourself a favor – grab some popcorn and enjoy. You’ll thank me later. When I recently watched it, I thoroughly enjoyed the acting, the pacing of the story and the marvelous music written by one of the producers of the film – the phenomenal Pharrell Williams.
But I left the film impacted by something much deeper. Based on a true story, the plot takes place within NASA in America’s south, during the 1960’s which was, at the time, a hotspot of racial tension (let alone rife with sexism as well). Yet these three African-American women find themselves promoted and celebrated within this world. It’s a wonderful sight to see the director of the space program destroying the ‘coloured restroom’ sign – breaking a symbol of segregation, a battle that was being fought for far more intentionally in other places around the country at the time. For that to happen at that time in history was extremely rare and noteworthy and that brought me to thinking about why it occurred.
Firstly, I want to give credit to the people involved. There is no doubt that those individuals who saw beyond race and gender were visionaries and strong ethical people. But I do believe there was another factor at play that made the biggest difference: there was a sense of urgency. America had to get into space to get ahead of Russia in the Cold War.
When there is strong pressure to get things done, there is no longer time or energy to get caught up in the semantics of prejudices. Optimal efficiency requires everyone to be utilized to their fullest potential regardless of any demographic. I believe urgency is a key factor in establishing not only equality but unity within the most diverse group of people.
I am really grateful we get to live in a world that is on its way to achieving equality regarding race and gender, but you do not have to look far to see there is still a long way to go between equality and unity. Many believe that our human differences are irreconcilable, but I am convinced that there will be a time where regardless of appearance, creed or persuasion, we will be able to truly live united.
I am tired of watching cultural differences tearing Africa apart. I am tired of seeing injustice rise its ugly head over and over – whether on social media or the street corner, the greater social constructs and individual personal moments. But as much as these things need to be advocated for, if we solely focus on them we might see equality but never actually build unity. We might not be racing to put someone into space, but I believe that the principle of urgency does apply to us today – and there are many sources of urgency that could be used to unite people.
The church is meant to be a place where the urgency to reach the lost, see people find community and family, and ultimately live a life filled with the wonder of God. I am blessed to be part of a church that is doing exactly that – and I get to serve and be in community with many different cultures, nationalities and classes as a result. My church does not have unity because we focused solely on it. It has unity because the ultimate goal is God’s heart and reality expressed on the earth. That goal involves everyone. It does not require qualification, genetic tests or any specific gender. The only requirement is that you show up – everyone is welcome. Everyone can be part of the journey.
In a broader context, Africa has more potential to prosper than any other continent. But while we are caught up in the semantics of ‘tribe, tongue and nation’, we will end up losing ourselves in the murky waters of injustice when there is a desperate need for strong, inclusive leadership. I know the economic situation in South Africa is looking dire, but that can foster an urgency that will force people to value each other for what they bring. As we focus on building – as we recognize the urgency for change surrounding us – I believe we will be able to see our continent flourish and our people begin to live united.
I believe that God is the ultimate uniting factor. He made all of us uniquely and specifically to portray who He is. Focussing on Him immediately draws us closer to all of humanity – because He is the Creator of all people. When it seems impossible to love and forgive, He is the one who enables us to do so. Everything that seems impossible is redefined when God is involved in your life. If you would like to find out more – click on the link below.