Ashwini is a woman from an indigenous community, that survives by hunting, selling beads, and ornaments. As a poor woman she went to have food which was distributed free by the government in partnership with a local faith-based organization. However, she was denied food and dignity. She vented her anger in a video that went viral. A senior minister in the Tamil Nadu cabinet had lunch with her and community in the same premises. (Times of India, 29 October 2021)
1) Marginalized: There are marginalized people by society sanctioned by religions; branding them as unclean, branded as primitive, and treated like subhuman beings. They were also taught that their past sins have brought them to this low status and must faithfully fall in line and should not try to aspire more.
2) Aspiration: However, these people reject the idea of past sins and diligent duty they were assigned by the religious elite. Capacity to aspire is a gift of the gospel.
3) Dignity: When Lord Jesus spoke with the Samaritan woman at the well offered her dignity. Indeed, she was surprised and did not expect such courtesy from a male, a Jew, and a Rabbi.
4) Equality: As Jews did not treat Samaritans as equals, many caste groups are not treated equally. Creation account in the Book of Genesis provides us the truth that all humans descend from the first couple: Adam and Eve.
5) Justice: Ashwini could aspire for justice. She understood that her treatment according to Law of India was not right, though it was sanctioned in the religious and social context. God sent Moses to deliver the enslave Children of Israel with liberating message to Pharaoh: Let my people go. (Exodus 9:1)
6) Communicate: Ashwini could have the guts to communicate her grievance in social media.
7) Spiritual rights: Lord promised the Samaritan woman she had spiritual rights to worship in truth and in spirit. (John 4: 24)
Spiritual liberty ensures social liberty let us proclaim to all who are in perpetual bondage.
Am I grateful for freedom in Christ?