Rev Liz Brown, who is a member of the London Disability Working Group, reflects on how we perceive identity within the landscape of disability.
As someone who has lived with a disability all my life but can often ‘pass’ as able-bodied, I frequently struggle with self-perception and how the church views me in light of my disability. I understand my disability as God-given, intrinsic to who I am and who God created me to be. This article is based on my personal experience of living with a lifelong disability and my reflection on a piece of scripture. I acknowledge that there are many different perspectives on disability within the disability community. By stating that my disability is God-given, I am not denying the struggles it brings. However, it is neither wholly negative nor a mistake; it is part of the diverse tapestry of creation. My disability enables me to see and interact with the world differently. It is a fundamental aspect of my identity, and without it, I would not be the person God created me to be. It is from this starting point that we can explore the importance of identity in faith and how disability may fit into this.
To aid us in delving into this theological concept, let’s consider the gospel narrative of Lazarus being called out of the tomb. In John 11:34-44, we see Jesus, deeply moved, going to Lazarus’s tomb, a cave with a stone against it. He instructed the stone to be removed, despite Martha’s concern about the stench from Lazarus being dead for four days. Jesus prayed, then called Lazarus by name to come out. Lazarus emerged, still wrapped in burial cloths, and Jesus instructed the people to unbind him and let him go.
This scripture is fascinating because Lazarus is raised from the dead by being named. This has profound implications for kingdom values and their relation to disability. Disability is often viewed negatively, and people with diverse disabilities are frequently grouped into a single category. Within societies, you are often either disabled or able-bodied. However, applying this kingdom imperative of naming and the importance it holds for life can transform our churches and individuals. I am not suggesting that churches have a right to personal medical information; rather, what do we truly know about each person beyond their disability? They might use a stick, have a visual impairment, or use a wheelchair, but relationships are key to the coming of the kingdom.
For example, listing my disabilities tells you very little about me as a person and might even give you a wrong impression. More importantly, it tells you nothing about the value God places on me and the calling He has for my life. If we name individuals in our communities, not only will it challenge us, but it will also transform us. It has the power to unlock numerous gifts and skills that we may not be aware of within our church communities.
By allowing ourselves to value one another’s humanity with all the individual differences that brings, we follow Jesus’ example and call for people to be unbound and freed. Enabling them to love and be loved in the heart of community and in relationship with others.
The reality of the present is that society is often hostile to disability. As church communities, we need to be welcoming and safe spaces for those who identify as disabled. Beyond the basics like building accessibility, large print notices and books, and hearing loops, we need to think more deeply. How do we offer a welcome that isn’t about making ourselves feel better, but about seeing individuals in the light of God? We must ask ourselves what they can offer to our community and what we can give to them, fostering a relationship where people can find their rightful place in the middle of the community. Seeking healing for all that does not require a cure.
With this change of perspective and reframing of our understanding of the breadth of God’s grace and healing, what might God be trying to teach us? What are we missing out on by excluding people with disabilities? How can we start conversations within our churches that look at and challenge our assumptions about others and God?
I would like to remind you that within London you have the amazing resources of John, your Diocesan Disability Ministry Enabler. He can help churches embark on a journey to discover what God might be leading your community toward.