Today’s reading: Luke 19
Diversity – All the ways are different from each other.
Inclusion – Bringing together and harnessing these diverse forces and resources in a way that is beneficial; inclusion puts the concept and practice of diversity into action by creating an environment of involvement, respect and connection – where the richness of ideas, backgrounds and perspectives are harnessed to create business value (T. Hudson Jordan, 2011).
From 20 years of experience in various corporate leadership roles, I truly believe in the power of diversity and inclusion. Diverse perspectives, when coupled with an engaged group of employees who are inspired to be their best, is a recipe for great results and innovative solutions that exceed expectations. Looking back over the last 20 years, I will attest that some of my greatest successes have been in situations where I was leading leaders and teams who were vastly different than me and each other. How inspiring it is to reflect on the hurdles we overcame as a team made up of many individuals who were so diverse.
Our scripture for today begins with the story of Zacchaeus. I’ve read this story (and sang the VBS song) thousands of times in my life. But it wasn’t until yesterday that ever thought of it in the context of diversity and inclusion. As you know, Zacchaeus was a tax collector. Though Jewish by birth, tax collectors were some of the most unpopular people in Israel because 1) they chose to work for the Roman government, and 2) they gouged their fellow Jews in order to make themselves rich. As such, they were shunned by Jews, including God’s people. It is no surprise that those who witnessed Jesus heading to Zacchaeus’ home in Luke 19 looked on with disapproval.
Despite his differences, Jesus sought to intentionally engage Zacchaeus. He called him by name, insisted on coming to his house, and quickly won Zacchaeus over. In response, Zacchaeus confessed his sin, promised to make retribution for all the people he had wronged, and Jesus rejoiced.
Are there groups of people you avoid associating with because of their political views, immoral behavior or life style you don’t agree with? Today’s scripture is a good reminder that Jesus calls us to include and to love those that are different from us. See, the reality is we are a lot more alike than we often think we are – you and I are sinners just like they are sinners, you and I need salvation every bit as much as they do. Rather than avoiding them, God calls us to love them and share with them the Good News of Jesus Christ.