Embracing the Misunderstood: Lessons from the Dingo and Jesus

As we reflect on October 8, the dingo offers us profound lessons about acceptance, understanding, and the transformative power of love in our communities. The words from John 15:18 remind us that rejection is not a new experience; even Jesus faced hatred and misunderstanding. In a similar way, the dingo has been unjustly vilified despite its vital role in the ecosystem of Australia.

Often seen as a threat to livestock or a nuisance, the dingo has endured persecution and misunderstanding throughout history. Many people fail to recognise its integral role in maintaining balance in the natural world. Instead of seeing the dingo as a creature deserving of respect and protection, it has become a target for control and eradication, often through cruel means.

This echoes the experiences of Jesus, who was met with fear and hostility. Both the dingo and Jesus challenge us to confront our biases and question our perceptions of those who seem different or threaten our sense of security. This reaction extends to marginalised groups, including LGBTQ+ folk, who often face rejection and discrimination. The world’s response to both figures invites us to consider how we engage with the unfamiliar—whether that’s a marginalised community, an LGBTQ+ person seeking acceptance, or simply someone whose beliefs or behaviours differ from our own.

Reflecting on these themes, we can draw inspiration from the insights shared by St. John's Cathedral. They encourage us to engage in meaningful dialogue about acceptance and understanding within our communities.

Recognising Fear and Misunderstanding: In our lives, we often allow fear or misunderstanding to cloud our judgment. How can we become more aware of the biases we hold? By actively seeking to understand those who are different from us, we can begin to dismantle the barriers that prevent meaningful connection.

Learning from the Dingo: The dingo's role in its ecosystem teaches us that every being has purpose and value, even if that purpose is not immediately evident. How can we learn to appreciate the misunderstood aspects of others in our community? By embracing the diversity around us, we allow for the richness that different perspectives bring to our lives.

As we ponder these lessons, let us pray for courage and resilience when faced with rejection or misunderstanding.

Divine Presence, help me to find courage and resilience when faced with rejection or misunderstanding. May I remember that, like the dingo and Jesus, my purpose and value are not diminished by the world’s judgments. Guide me to embrace those who are different, recognising the beauty in diversity and the strength it brings to our communities.

In our journey of progressive Christianity, may we strive to be more like Jesus—embracing the outcast, uplifting the marginalised, and recognising the divine presence in all beings. Just as the dingo plays a crucial role in its ecosystem, we too have our part to play in creating a world where love and acceptance thrive.

As we reflect on these insights from St. John's Cathedral in Brisbane, let us move forward with open hearts, ready to engage with the misunderstood, and to embody the transformative love that Jesus exemplified. Together, we can foster a community that celebrates diversity and promotes understanding, inviting the Divine presence into every aspect of our lives.

Image Source: stjohnscathedral.com.au