“The King is mighty, he loves justice—you have established equity; in Jacob you have done what is just and right” (Psalm 99:4).

Justice is important to God. In Scripture, God is especially concerned that the poor and defenseless are receiving justice because they do not have the resources to reach out and claim it for themselves. If it’s important to God, it should be important to us. 

Pay attention to these strong words from Deuteronomy: “Cursed is anyone who withholds justice from the foreigner, the fatherless or the widow” (24:17). Or these words from Isaiah: “Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow” (1:17).

Read through the gospels and notice the words and actions of Jesus. Time after time he speaks and acts on behalf of those who cannot help themselves. He condemns followers of God who do seemingly perfect things without loving others: “Woe to you Pharisees, because you give God a tenth of your mint, rue and all other kinds of garden herbs, but you neglect justice and the love of God” (Luke 11:42).

Is seeking justice for people in all circumstances still a characteristic of the Christian church? Is it part of our individual churches? How about in our personal lives?

Lord, give us hearts filled with your love and willing bodies and minds to bring Christ-like justice to all people! Amen.