‘Remember: We do not live alone‘

I just read an article posted on the BBC News website about Ubuntu. I first learned about Ubuntu while in seminary, and this philosophy from South Africa really shapes how I view my existence in the world. Key phrases from Ubuntu are: “I am because you are. You are because we are.” Ubuntu stresses the importance of community and coexistence. It is basically the opposite of the individualistic “me” culture we tend to embrace in our country.

Themes found in the Bible also stress the importance of community. God asks Cain a question about his brother, Able, and Cain replies, “Am I my brother’s keeper?” And from that point in scripture we find story after story of how all of the nations are in some way related to one another, and that yes, we are our brothers’ and sisters’ keeper. We find the purpose for our existence is in community, and we are all called to take care of each other, particularly for those who are the most vulnerable.

Consider who makes you who you are, or more specifically, who impacts you in such a way that you have become a better person. Thank God for the blessing you have received from this person or persons. Take the time to thank those who have molded you in a positive way. I am sure it will make their day. And then, consider who you know, or a person you may only know from a distance, whose life you can positively impact. Who is in your community that needs your care, your encouragement, your mentorship? Remember, we do not live alone. We live and thrive in community.

“Have we not all one father? Has not one Go created us? Why then are we faithless to one another, profaning the covenant of our ancestors?” Malachi 2:10