Dash of Thought March 2026

Humanity
At the beginning of March, I was invited to a panel discussion at a conference.
"Humanity is true piety" - this statement by a previous speaker, which the moderator
quoted in the course of the conversation, inspired me to think further.
On the one hand, it reminded me of the Wesleyan expression "works of mercy" or "love
of neighbor". Wesley also understood these - and not just the "works of piety" such as
praying - as means of grace. In other words, as a channel through which God fills those
who live love of neighbor with his grace and love. Without playing these two forms off
against each other - and quite biblically - he noted that in some situations the practices
of love of neighbor are even more urgent than those of piety.
On the other hand, I couldn't let go of the idea of humanity. My first impulse: it is about
compassionate behavior towards others. I am called to do this, especially as a Christian.
So how do I behave towards my fellow human beings?
Then another thought began to occupy me: First of all, I am a fellow human being! -
Being aware of this results in a change of perspective. The community - my family, the
Christian community, the co-workers at work, my circle of friends - were there first,
sometimes long before me. At some point, I became part of these communities myself.
I and all those who have joined the communities since then are dependent on their
humanity. I am a recipient and infinitely grateful for it!
There is no question that I should treat my counterpart with humanity in personal
contact. However, as a fellow human being myself and dependent on the humanity of a
community, I am also called to help shape such a community - especially in the church
and congregation. A community in which its members and all newcomers experience
themselves as fellow human beings. In which they experience that they are safe and
accepted just as they are – and that they belong. In which they experience that they are
part of a community that is learning and practicing, in all its imperfection, to be human,
as Jesus was as the man - the image of God. It is also a community that consciously
opposes any dehumanization as a result.
Church as a place of successful humanity! What are your experiences? How do you want
to contribute to a compassionate community with your gifts and special opportunities?
Bishop Stefan Zürcher

Photo: Pixabay