By Rhona Edith
We present ourselves as a sensitive generation, seemingly concerned with the nuances of language and the importance of being inclusive.
For instance, we say someone “has autism” instead of “is autistic” to avoid suggesting that autism defines their entire identity. We’ve moved away from saying someone has “committed suicide,” opting for “died by suicide.”
Yet, paradoxically, we also engage in trolling online, a behaviour that can drive some individuals to take their own lives. Every day, we create new terms like “bonus mom” rather than using “stepmom,” all in an effort to appear more caring, compassionate, and empathetic.
Is this approach bad? Not necessarily. However, it becomes pretentious when we recognize that, at our core, we may also be the most insensitive generation to have ever existed.
We often say whatever we want without considering how it impacts others. We are so preoccupied with the mindset of “this is my truth” that we overlook the fact that our truths don’t have to be harsh or hurtful.
Ultimately, we seem to prioritize our choice of words over the well-being of the people involved. We are quick to sever ties with others, yet we expect grace and understanding in return.
We speak of our boundaries but may lack the practice of basic human decency and communal etiquette. Until we acknowledge the disconnection between our outward display of sensitivity and our genuine empathy, superficial sensitivity will persist.
Unfortunately, Christians are not exempt from this behaviour. This reminds me of the Pharisees in the Bible. A modern Christian might quickly dismiss the possibility of becoming like them, but if we are not careful, we risk falling into similar patterns.
The New Testament, particularly the Gospels, highlights the hypocrisy and pretentiousness of the Pharisees. Jesus frequently confronted them for their outward displays of righteousness that masked their inner spiritual emptiness.
Matthew 23:1-39 contains one of the most direct and scathing rebukes from Jesus directed at the Pharisees and scribes. We must not clean only the outside of the cup and dish while allowing the inside to be filled with greed and self-indulgence.
Let us not neglect the more important matters of the law: justice, mercy, and faith.
