Reflections on Justiceنموونە

Isaiah 58 is a disturbing chapter. We see a picture of people blinded by their sinfulness yet believing a lie that has deeply calloused their hearts. In verse 3, they accused God of insensitivity to their self-inflicted sacrifices. In response, God brought to light their hypocrisy. How could God accept their offering when, at the same time, they oppress their neighbours!

Even the hardest sacrifice and noblest service will never win God’s approval when they are offered to cover abuse and feed pride and arrogance. History is replete with examples of professing Christians who advocate slavery and abuse children and vulnerable individuals while proclaiming the saving power of Christ. How self-contradictory!

Verses six and seven encompass those that are within our reach – those who work for us, our relatives, the hungry, and the homeless. God desires faith in action – lighten the burden, remove the chains, share your food, give shelter, and do not hide. James 1:27 calls this ‘pure and undefiled’ religion (ESV). This is the kind of fasting that God requires.

Challenge: Identify a few people in your community who need help. You may have clothes, a pair of shoes or other stuff that you can give. Prepare a gift bag or box to make your items more presentable. If you have people working for you, make sure that you do not overburden them and pay them appropriately and on time.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, make me an instrument of justice by living a life of love and service to the oppressed and abused, the hungry and the homeless. May there be no inconsistency in my dealing with others, no unclean motive, no futile sacrifice, but all for your sake and glory. Amen.