Racism is a problem in America. What isn’t so obvious is what to do about it.

I grew up in Compton, California. I’ve seen the ugliness of racism up close. So has Pastor Miles McPherson, who grew up in a black neighborhood but went to school in a white neighborhood. He says he was too dark for white people and too light for black people. He was disrespected and mistreated by both races.

Although race relations have improved over the past few generations, nothing we’ve tried has eradicated it. In fact, one could argue that certain movements seeking positive change have deepened the cultural divide rather than bridged it. Inadvertently or intentionally, the underlying message has often been “choose your side.” Stand against the black community or stand for the black community. Stand against the white community or stand for the white community.

Miles and I both agree that there’s a better option than choosing sides: recognize that every single person is created in God’s image and deserves respect. “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is no male or female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28).

That kind of love for our fellow man requires more from Christians than quoting a Bible verse. It’s putting the truth of that verse into action that changes lives, communities, and nations.

When I had lunch with Miles a while back, he shared his heart with me on this issue, and I knew I had to share his views with you. On our Focus on the Family Broadcast “Seeing God’s Image in All Men,” we’re airing a recorded message from Miles that challenges us as believers to see God’s image in our neighbor, no matter what their color!

Miles is a former player in the NFL and is now the senior pastor of The Rock Church in San Diego. He’s trying to make a difference by building bridges in racially divided communities across the country.

Hear what Miles says is one of the most important ingredients to healing racism on your local radio station, online, on Apple Podcasts, via Google Podcasts, or on our free phone app.

I also encourage you to get Miles’ book The Third Option: Hope for a Racially Divided Nation. For a gift of any amount, we’ll send you a copy. Check here for details.