Archaia felt like an oddity, even though she was not very different from many of the people in her village. She worshipped gods and goddesses and regarded sorcery as a source of healing, just as the other women and men in her village. Still, the villagers did not like her.
Archaia’s town was strictly bisected by social hierarchy. Those of higher status had no intention of being exposed to families like Archaia’s, to the point that if they saw a person like her on their path, they would turn around and take another route. The social order dictated that people like her were a contaminant, and people of her station lived in perpetual disgrace.
Seeing how her people were looked down upon, Archaia often wondered, “Why does such discrimination among humans prevail?”
The ill treatment Archaia received wore her down until she lost her confidence. Was she really as worthless as they believed? Did anyone see any value in her?
A Different Sort of Man
One day, GFA pastor Uriel came to Archaia’s home to visit with her and her family. Archaia had thought Christians were just like everyone else and excluded people like her, but Pastor Uriel told her that “all are same and have the right to fellowship with the Creator God. God loves everyone, and salvation is for all humanity.” After he shared with Archaia and her parents about Christ’s love, he invited them to church.
At the church, Archaia was welcomed by the believers. Their kindness reflected the love of Christ she had heard about. Among them, Archaia no longer felt like an oddity. It was wonderful to witness how everyone in the church was respected, regardless of their social standing. Having experienced the love of Jesus firsthand, Archaia now desires to know and walk with Him.
Before Archaia knew God’s character, God knew her, and He wanted to show Archaia she was special and known and loved. He did this through His people, such as Pastor Uriel and his congregation. Because of them, she now communes with a God who loves her and worships with people who don’t look down on her. Now Archaia knows all people are equal in the sight of her Heavenly Father.
“There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus..”—Galatians 3:27-28