pastorjohnb

Thoughts and musings on faith and our mighty God!

Tag Archives: justice


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How Can We…?

Reading: Psalm 27:1, 4-9

Psalm 27:8 – “Come, my heart says, seek God’s face! Lord, I do seek your face!”

Photo credit: Mitchel Lensink

We do not know the context for Psalm 27. Even though we do not know the cause, we do know that David’s words are a hopeful prayer lifted in the midst of a time of suffering and trial. In our hard times, perhaps these are words that we’ve lifted as a prayer. And today, in places near and far, rural and urban, well-off and living in poverty, these are words that many could or do lift to God as they suffer, struggle, and are afraid. As we consider these words today, may we also consider how we might be an answer to those near to us who lift these words or words like them as a prayer to God.

The Psalm begins with hope and confidence. With God as light, salvation, and protection, what is there to fear? For David, there are evildoers and enemies all around and an army encamped against him. Today, there is war, violence, threats, division, hatred, disease, injustice. People are in hiding, filled with fear – right here in our nation. David seeks shelter in the house of the Lord. If he could but dwell there every day of his life… While our churches largely remain safe places, getting there is another story for many people. For David and for the faithful today, being in God’s presence is a place and space to worship, to find joy, to rest “during troubling times.”

The last verses of today’s reading are a plea to God. David begs for God to hear, to listen, to have mercy. Encouraging himself and others, David implores his faith, saying, “Come, my heart says, seek God’s face! Lord, I do seek your face!” This is a hopeful request to “God who saves.” And again I wonder, how can we as the hands and feet of God bring both presence and peace and tangible help such as food and shelter to those suffering and living in fear today?

Prayer: Lord God, for those of us not facing persecution or oppression or threat, not living in fear, not suffering, move us to action on behalf of those experiencing these things. Use us as you may to restore justice, basic freedoms, safety. For those lacking these things, be present to them wherever they are – in one of your houses or in places of hiding. And through us, may they feel and know your love, your protection, and your peace. Amen.


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God Will…

Reading: Isaiah 49:1-4

Isaiah 49:4b – “Nevertheless, the Lord will grant me justice; my reward is with God.”

Photo credit: Aaron Burden

The second of four Servant Songs found in Isaiah is our focus today and tomorrow. In this week’s reading, the servant speaks in the first person. These words could be Isaiah himself speaking or they could be the words of the servant Israel – an ideal Israel. Or is the prophet speaking as you or me?

The chosenness found in Isaiah 42 continues in chapter 49. The servant was called before birth, formed by God in the womb for this very purpose. As God’s hand continued to shape and form the servant, he or she or we became “a sharp sword… a sharpened arrow.” God’s word continues to cut through our sin and complacency and apathy, calling us to be people bent on righteousness and justice. God identifies the servant as one “in whom I show my glory.” God’s light and love, shining in and through us, reveal God’s presence and glory to the world. It is a high calling.

And it is not always easy to speak truth and to bring God glory. At times we feel like the servant feels: “wearied… in vain… used up… strength… for nothing.” We have given our all, but the fight feels too uphill. We have walked the long road of faith, but there seems to be no end in sight. The injustice, the oppression, the grief, the evils of this world – they appear to be winning. In these low moments, in the depth of the dark valley, we need to remember and cling to the words found at the end of verse 4: “Nevertheless, the Lord will grant me justice; my reward is with God.” God is on our side. God has a plan. God is a God of justice and righteousness. God will triumph over all evil. And if not in our lifetime, then heaven is surely our reward. Thanks be to God!

Prayer: Lord God, there are many days when we walk in your light and love. We feel your presence, strength, and guidance. Our words, thoughts, and actions are pleasing in your sight. May these days be our reminders. Lord, in those seasons when we are worn down and feel defeated, remind us of your presence. Lift us up by the memories of our long and steady walk with you. Renew our strength and focus so that your light might shine into the darkness, whether in our hearts or in our world. Amen.


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The Spirit of God

Reading: Isaiah 42:1-4

Isaiah 42:1 – “But here is my servant… I’ve put my spirit upon him; he will bring justice to the nations.”

Isaiah 42 has been identified since the time of Jesus as one of four Servant Songs found in Isaiah. The New Testament writers used these songs as messianic prophecies, identifying Jesus as the servant who suffers. At the time of their writing, though, the aim of these songs was to help Israel understand its servant role, even in the midst of suffering and exile.

In this first Servant Song, the servant is chosen by God. His or her role is defined this way: “I’ve put my spirit upon him; he [or she] will bring justice to the nations.” It is important to note that the spirit of God is much different than the spirit of the world. God’s spirit and the power that it brings works to bring justice to the world. This spirit doesn’t shout and demand respect. This spirit does not trample over others but cares for the weak and the marginalized – the “bruised reed” and the “faint wick.” With compassion and care this spirit will bring God’s justice to the world. This gentle yet strong spirit of God works steadfastly to build a just and loving world.

The spirit of the world cares little for this way of kingdom building. Those with the spirit of the world recklessly force their way, seeking personal gain and glory above all else. In their wake we find suffering and harm. Justice is a good thing, yes – unless it gets in the way of accumulating more and more. The goals of the spirit of the world are more power, more wealth, more status. These aims are about as far from “humble servant” as one could get.

In Isaiah, in any other prophet’s words, and in the New Testament witness, the people of God are called to humble service, gentle leadership, compassionate care for the vulnerable. The spirit of God calls us to be bringers of justice. May we choose to walk as a humble and sometimes suffering servant of God today and every day.

Prayer: Lord God, outside of your word and outside of our faith communities, so much of what we hear and see is guided by the spirit of the world. Although not easy in our current world, lead and guide us to be people of your spirit – humbly serving, seeking justice, protecting the least of these. Chosen by you, use us to shine your light and love into the darkness of this world. Amen.


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God’s Light and Imprint

Reading: Hebrews 1:1-12

Hebrews 1:3 – “The Son is the light of God’s glory and the imprint of God’s being.”

The title of this opening section of Hebrews in my home Bible is “The Son is God’s Ultimate Messenger.” The author of Hebrews raises Jesus up far above the prophets and the angels. Most of our passage today contains quotes from the Hebrew scriptures, known to us as the Old Testament. Using these seven quotes, the author roots Jesus in Judaism’s sacred scriptures and holy traditions. Together these quotes establish Jesus as God’s son, as creator of the world, as justice and righteousness personified, as controller of the angels, and as eternally reigning.

The heart of today’s reading, though, is found in the opening verses. It is Jesus who “in these final days” spoke as God’s prophet. Through the message that Jesus gave, he “maintains everything.” Jesus’ words and power hold all things together under him. The one who created the world is the one who holds it all together. In verse 3 we read about how this is possible: “The Son is the light of God’s glory and the imprint of God’s being.” Here the author gets at the core of the incarnation, of Emmanuel, God with us. In Jesus we see the light of God and we see the character of God. Jesus is God in the flesh.

In word and deed Jesus reveals God’s love, mercy, grace, hope… lived out on earth. And when Jesus was done setting the example for us to follow in this life, “he carried out the cleansing of people from their sins.” Jesus became our atoning sacrifice so that we could continue to follow his perfect example after falling short. Providing a way for us imperfect creatures to be made right again with God, Jesus then “sat down at the right hand” of God, awaiting our arrival in heaven. There we will forever worship the Lord. Thanks be to God!

Prayer: Lord God, we praise you today for your word and example that endures forever. We thank you for showing us the way to love unconditionally, to forgive without count, to dwell in beloved community, to walk together in faith. Be with us now and always. Amen.


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Good News

Reading: Isaiah 52:7-10

Isaiah 52:7 – “How beautiful… are the feet of a messenger who proclaims peace… brings good news… proclaims salvation.”

Our Old Testament passage begins with Isaiah celebrating the long-distance runners who carried important news from place to place. Some think, however, that Isaiah is talking about himself here. Either way, the important part is the message: God is present to God’s people and offers peace, salvation, and much more. Whether in the words of scripture, in a Sunday morning message, or in a devotional, this good news brings hope, comfort, encouragement, strength… to all people seeking to walk in right relationship with the Lord our God. The faithful rejoice when we see “our God’s victory” over the things of this world.

This good news and these victories are not heard or received the same way by all people. When God redeems and restores and saves, this is bad news for those who have enslaved, oppressed, and taken advantage of others for their own gain. When God brings peace and strength to those experiencing violence and war, this is not good news to the aggressors and others who seek to exert power over others. When God proclaims and brings salvation, it is not good news to dealers of illicit drugs and other vices that keep people imprisoned. When God works to end injustices and to right other systemic wrongs, it is not good news to those benefiting from these evil ways. God’s good news is not good news to those seeking to live by the ways of this world.

Just as Isaiah and others spoke of God’s power, justice, and love for all people, we too are called to be messengers of God’s good news. With eyes wide open may we strive to bring good news to all people as we seek to build God’s kingdom here on earth.

Prayer: Lord God, sharing good news with people who are eager to hear and receive is such a joy. Guide us to always do so. In other situations, where your good news challenges or calls for good change, encourage and empower us. Strengthen us, Lord, so we can faithfully walk that hard road of justice and love for all people. Amen.


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Help and Hope

Reading: Psalm 146:5-10

Psalm 146:5 – “The person whose help is the God of Jacob… whose hope rests on the Lord their God – is truly happy!”

Psalm 146 celebrates God’s activity on behalf of those in need. The psalmist declares that those who seek help from God and who place their hope in God, they will be “truly happy.” When God is the one we turn to, hope in, trust… then our focus becomes our relationship with the God “who is faithful forever.” We can rejoice even in our trials and sufferings because we know that God will triumph over all these things one day.

In verses 6-8 the psalmist speaks of the Lord’s activity in specific ways. We could re-write these verses, substituting in ways that God has acted in our lives. We could name a time when God brought justice to a time when we were being mistreated. We could write of the time when the Lord freed us from a prison of our own making. Just as the psalmist rejoices in the ways that God feeds the hungry, opens blind eyes, lifts the lowly, and protects the vulnerable, we too can celebrate moments when God has done these very things (and more) for us.

Daily remembering that we are “the person whose help is the God of Jacob… whose hope rests on the Lord their God,” we can daily draw upon the power and presence of our God. Drawing upon, leaning into, trusting in God, we can find and live out the happiness and contentment found in Psalm 146. May it be so for you and for me.

Prayer: Lord God, you reign forever, over all the earth! Your presence is constant, your love is neverending. Daily you desire to walk with each of us, from the least to the greatest. Open each of our hearts to receive you, to surrender to your will and ways, to be your hands, feet, and love in the world. Daily use each of us to draw all people into your help and hope. Amen.


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The Stump That Rises

Reading: Isaiah 11:1-10

Isaiah 11:10 – “On that day, the root of Jesse will stand as a signal to the peoples. The nations will seek him out.”

Isaiah writes the words that we read today during a time of turmoil and distress. Judah’s revolt had been crushed by Assyria. Yes, God promises vengeance on Assyria – some day. Today, though, as the prophet writes, Judah is deep in defeat. Like the first ray of sunshine after a long and stormy night, Isaiah writes, “A shoot will grow up from the stump of Jesse.” Judah is the stump right now – cut down, left to die. Right now, yes, this is their reality. But it is not their forever. One day a shoot will rise up.

The Lord’s Spirit will rest upon this future king, filling him with “wisdom… understanding… planning… strength… knowledge, and fear of the Lord.” What great qualities for a leader. This coming king will also be a man of and for the people. He won’t judge by appearance or hearsay – no favoritism or sexism or any other “isms.” He will judge with righteousness and equity. He will remove the violent and the wicked. And the peace and harmony and justice that this coming king will establish, it will spread to all of creation. Wolf will live with lamb and calf will feed with the lion. Isaiah’s vision of this coming kingdom is one of great hope and promise.

Today, as I look out upon the world around me, there is much turmoil and distress. Violence and cruel words dominate the discussion in circles of power. Favoritism guides decisions. Division is the name of the game. We need hope. We need to be the people who raise the shoot of Jesse up, speaking words of light and love into the darkness and hate of our world. We need to raise high the will and way of Christ. “On that day, the root of Jesse will stand as a signal to the peoples. The nations will seek him out.”

Prayer: Lord God, in these days, I quickly turn off the news, unable to hear more. I cannot scroll long without becoming wearied. We need to begin hearing a different story. So empower your church, O Lord, to be people who champion peace and harmony and justice. Empower us, O God, to raise up Christ’s light and love amidst the world’s darkness and hate. Use us, shine in us and through us, drawing the nations to seek out our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.


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A Kingdom of Justice and Righteousness

Reading: Psalm 72:1-7

Psalm 72:2 – “Let him judge your people with righteousness and your poor with justice.”

Psalm 72 is a prayer for the long reign of a just and righteous king. It is a prayer for a king who will rule as God’s representative here on earth. These words of Solomon were likely written when he was living closest to this vision of an ideal king. Like his father David, considered Israel’s greatest king, Solomon had many failures during his reign. Only one king has been and ever will be truly just and righteous: Jesus.

In verse 2 we get a glimpse into what the “ideal” king will be like. Here we read, “Let him judge your people with righteousness and your poor with justice.” Under this kind of leader there will be peace in the land. This peace is not founded on military power or dominance. It is founded upon lifting up the poor and needy while “crushing” any who seek to oppress. Today this would involve dismantling systems that oppress and take advantage of those on the margins. It would remove power from the hands of those who seek to lord power over others purely for personal gain.

Under a just and righteous king there would be abundance and flourishing for all people. To ensure this, a just and righteous king would act for the good of the poor and marginalized, exhibiting God’s heart for “the least of these.” These actions would naturally place such a king in opposition to the greedy and power-hungry. The kingdoms of this would did and do struggle with the establishment of a kingdom of justice and righteousness. It is a kingdom not of this world. It is a kingdom where Christ the king reigns. O God, may it be so.

Prayer: Lord God, we long for the day when the kingdoms of this world crumble to dust as Jesus returns in glory. As we long, we also wait. As we wait, O God, may it be an active waiting. Use us day by day to be builders of a more just and righteous world. May the story of our lives tell the story of your coming kingdom. Amen.


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Unity Yields Justice and Peace

Reading: Psalm 122

Psalm 122:9 – “For the sake of the Lord our God’s house, I will pray for your good.”

Photo credit: Wylly Suhendra

The Psalm of David that we read today rejoices in worshipping God in Jerusalem. The city is both the seat of power for the kings of Israel and it is understood to be the seat of grace for the King of Kings. This song would be sung by many people each time they journeyed to Jerusalem to visit the temple, to offer sacrifices, to celebrate their holy days.

Themes of unity and justice and peace are woven into this Psalm. Unity is found in the people of God coming together to worship the Lord. This is both in actual worship in the temple and it is in the way that they lived their daily lives. God is the thing that unites. The unity found in and through God gives the people of God strength and power. This power is so different from the world’s power. The strength and power that comes from unity with God and with one another leads to justice and peace in the land and in the peoples’ lives.

David writes these words in verse 9: “For the sake of the Lord our God’s house, I will pray for your good.” He prays this prayer with unity and justice and peace as his goal. When the people of God are faithful to the will and way of God centered on Jesus’ example and teachings, then unity with God and with one another will yield justice and peace in our homes, in our communities, and in our world. May it be so for us all.

Prayer: Lord God, be the king of our hearts. Sitting on the throne of our hearts, guide us to a unity that brings justice and peace to our hearts and to our lives. Centered on the love of Christ as our guide, make us people who stand for and work for justice for all and for peace in all places. O God, may it be so. Amen.


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Light Our Fires, Rekindle the Light

Reading: Isaiah 2:1-5

Isaiah 2:3 – “Come, let’s go up to the Lord’s mountain… so that he may teach us his ways and we may walk in God’s paths.”

These words from the prophet Isaiah are words of great hope. In his words we see the world as God intended it to be and as God calls us to make it. This envisioned world is one of peace and abundance. It is a world where all people have a place of belonging in God’s beloved community.

Isaiah’s words, on the one hand, are specific to Judah and Jerusalem. One day the city of God will be lifted up and nations will stream to it. All who are saved will come to be taught God’s ways. This will lead them to turn swords and spears into plows and pruning tools. Walking in God’s ways will bring an end to hunger and want, to war and hate, to division and oppression. All people in this new place will walk in God’s light.

While this is a wonderful and beautiful vision of a day to come, what if these words were our marching orders right now? What if the people of God lifted up God’s ways of love and grace, compassion and generosity? What if we did that so well that many would be drawn to walk in the ways of the Lord? What unjust systems might change and what forms of oppression and violence might come to an end?

When we truly walk as Christ in the world, then we have the power to transform lives and systems. When we are faithful to Jesus in all aspects of our daily living, then our light will shine forth into the darkness of the world. When we practice and fight for peace and justice as the minimum standard for all people, then God’s kingdom will begin to be manifest here on earth.

Prayer: Lord God, sometimes it seems easier to just envision these words of Isaiah becoming a reality somewhere down the line. To believe that we can make this world into what you desire it to be, well, that’s harder to envision. When we doubt and fear, light our fires of faith. When we are anxious or weak, rekindle the light of Christ within us. Use us, O God. Send us out to change our broken and unjust world into a world of love and peace and justice and abundance. Amen.