Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause. Isaiah 1:17
16 January 2019
Dear Friends,
This past week, the Cabinet gathered to begin this year's appointment season. Throughout the week, we worshipped with the theme of "Justice rolling down like waters". It was both a helpful and disturbing reminder of the seriousness of the ministry that we are all called to. We are of course called to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world and we are called to act with love and mercy to all those who are in need. And we are called to seek justice.
What does this look like in your area of ministry? The daily news certainly brings our focus to many areas where justice is needed. We often see people of color being mistreated or not afforded the same privilege as white people. We see our neighbors in need being villainized, imprisoned and kept out of our country. We see women who are not given equal pay and children who are abused and neglected. We see our LGBT friends and family members being treated as less than their straight compatriots.
We do not have to look very far to see acts of injustice all around us. Are you leading your congregations and communities to seek justice where it is needed? Next week, we will remember Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and all he did for the civil rights. movement. This is a perfect opportunity for each of us to preach about justice. My prayer is that you will pray diligently about what God would have you say to your congregations and how you should act to bring justice to your community. This is no easy task. We all need to allow God to guide us in our prophetic voice and actions.
Today, I am praying for each of you as you minister to correct oppression where it may be found and bring more justice into the world. When we do justice, love mercy and walk humbly with our God, we move closer to finding God's Kingdom here on earth. May God truly guide your steps, your voice and your actions today and every day.
Blessings, Jackie
* photo - Steve Jackson, Youtube.