Called to justice

As we identify how our lives are intertwined, woven together both in love and suffering, we take the first step toward restoring justice to the world. (Image by truthseeker08 from Pixabay)

I am a recipient of my parent’s love and hard work. I am also a person of privilege — a white, middle class, professional male with a good education, and access to resources that help me to live comfortably in a world where many still barely survive. What then does it mean for me to follow the One who called us to “sell what you have and give to the poor” (Matthew 19:21)? In this era of pandemic, division and ever-changing realities, what does it mean to “do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with God” (Micah 6:8)?

The call to justice invites us to open our eyes that do not notice, ears that are deaf to the groans of the world, and hearts that are overcome with fatigue. As we identify how our lives are intertwined, woven together both in love and suffering, we take the first step toward restoring justice to the world.

I invite you to read this Fall/Winter 2020 issue of Voices of Compassion with an open mind and heart, asking what God might be calling us to be or do in response to the suffering and injustice in our world. What do I learn when I let myself move through my fear, anger or shame and go beyond my comfort zone? What is God calling forth from me, despite my own oppression or my own privilege?

May our prayer make us catalysts to “let justice roll down like waters” (Amos 5:24). Let us work to assure abundant food and clean water for all. May we strive to end today’s exploitation and slavery. Let us confess past sins — the enslavement of Africans, the genocide of indigenous peoples throughout the world — and transform their lasting effects with healing and hospitality. May equality, justice and protection for all people throughout the world be our goal. Let us mend the wounds of Mother Earth.

Help us, loving God. Open us to heed your call for justice and righteousness.