Partiality: Ableism

“You shall not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block before the blind, but you shall fear your God: I am the Lord.” -Leviticus 19:14

We’re talking about partiality this week. Partiality is showing favor to one person and prejudice against another person because the two are different. We talked about racism yesterday, but that’s not the only kind of partiality out there. Today we’ll touch on ableism.

Ableism is looking down on someone because they are disabled in some way. Perhaps someone is walking differently because they have muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy. Maybe someone has a speech impediment. Or perhaps someone has dyslexia and can’t read well in class. To make fun of these people or to treat them differently is partiality, and it is sinful in God’s eyes.

Ableism can take a more subtle form, too - showing pity when you’re with these people. Attempting to aid them in everything they do, telling them how sorry you feel for them without prompting, or treating them like a small child just because their disabled is not okay.

God created everyone they way they are on purpose. We do not know why God created some people’s bodies disabled and others’ bodies functioning normal. We can only assume that it leads to his glory. But it does not take away from the person’s value. They are created just as perfectly intentional as anyone else, and they are beautiful in God’s eyes.

So treat everyone as a precious child of God, and do not show partiality to those who are different than you. Sow love always.