I wasn't sure if many of you were aware that Monday was Columbus Day, or is now referred to as Indigenous Day. To be honest, I was reminded by accident. Even so, it got me thinking about the gospel and our country's history with the people of the First Nations.
The historical treatment of Native Americans is a profound source of sadness, marked by injustice, displacement, and cultural erasure over centuries. This sorrow is not just a chapter in history books; it echoes in the hearts of Indigenous communities today. How might Jesus and His redemptive work speak to these communities? Is the idea of Jesus, 'the white man's religion', able to be received by these deeply traumatized followers of Jesus? I believe it does. But not just to the First Nations, but also to the descendants of many Western pilgrims who set out to make a new life for their families. Both groups are carrying forth a great amount of guilt and shame as a result of that tragic past.
The Christian Gospel offers a message of hope and healing that can resonate with both Native Americans and those who were related to those who perpetuated their suffering. (Even though I acknowledge that none of us were involved in those atrocities; regardless, I think many of us feel a deep sense of shame and sadness for how these people were treated.) In Ephesians 2:14-16, Paul reminds us that Christ has broken down the walls of hostility between peoples, creating one new humanity through His sacrifice. This verse speaks to the possibility of reconciliation and unity, urging us to acknowledge our past wrongs while looking forward to a future of peace. The Gospel calls us to repentance and humility, inviting both oppressors and the oppressed into a transformative journey where healing can occur. By fostering dialogue grounded in love and respect, we can participate in a collective restoration—embracing our shared humanity and celebrating the rich heritage of Native cultures as we walk together toward justice and hope.
As the beginning of my post alluded to, I normally would not give two minutes to even think about this stain on the American tapestry. I (we) are so far removed from such incidents. Even so, the scars, pain, and shame that many Native Americans still wrestle with every day are prevalent in various walks of life. There is still a need for healing and restoration for the First Nations' descendants and their oppressors. I have been reminded of this reality due to having a friend who is involved in a ministry to Native Americans in the American Northwest. The updates and pictures convey a story of various people groups who are still recovering psychologically, culturally, and economically.
It is easy for me to forget or ignore their pain and humiliation because I don't see Native Americans and their families in my world. (President Andrew Jackson used the U.S. Army to relocate the Indians to Oklahoma via the infamous 'Trail of Tears.') But I was reminded of how Jesus went out of his way, or took the out-of-the-way route, to address the Samaritan Woman at the well. It is through this narrative that Jesus shows me that He is in the 'out-of-the-way' business; that as He lives His life through me I should expect Him to prompt and move me to do the same in my daily life.
I don't know what that will mean for my family and me, but I can pray, give, and learn how the Lord is working in the lives of First Nations people and the descendants of American citizens. I can pray specifically that God the Father would further heal the hostility and shame that resides within both people groups. And, I can invite other Christians to do the same. Therefore, consider yourself invited. Feel free to join me in praying that the Lord Jesus will continue this transformative work of healing, forgiveness, and reconciliation amongst First Nations peoples and the American descendants they come in contact with.