Loving Our NeighborsSample

Let’s Talk About a Requirement

Justice can feel like an intimidating word, especially in today’s world. There can be real and valid fears that keep us from seeking justice for ourselves or for others. And injustice can seem so overwhelming that it’s difficult to identify a next step. 

But if we want to the world to reflect the love and goodness of God, we can’t just read the news or stay informed. We have to carefully put the ideas of biblical justice into action. After all, justice is a core part of what Jesus came to bring. In His ministry, Jesus sought out and spent time with the marginalized, outcasts, and oppressed.

Here’s some good news: Justice is from God, and it’s simply pursuing His best for everyone.

Here’s some bad news: We’ve all participated in injustice, no matter how difficult it is to admit.

Ultimately, justice isn’t a request or recommendation from God—it’s a requirement. So it’s not something “extra” we tack onto our lives. It’s a key part of what following Jesus is all about. Just look at what Scripture tells us about justice: 

... And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8 NIV

God has called all of us to play a part in seeking justice. But we don’t have to do it in our own strength or by our own power. 

Jesus came to fulfill justice, and we get an idea of what He means in Luke 4 when He says that He has come to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor. That’s a reference the the Old Testament Year of Jubilee—a year in which slaves would be set free and land would return to its original owners. 

But despite this incredible law of freedom, God’s people never got to see Jubilee. Instead, Jesus brings us something better. He comes to fulfill what the Law—and what we—could not do. And amazingly, He invites each of us to play a small part in bringing more of His Kingdom—His justice, righteousness, and goodness—to earth. 

Later on in the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus says that those who hunger and thirst for justice will be satisfied. So if we want to love our neighbor as ourselves, we need to be a part of seeking justice for our neighbors. 

The Bible Project defines justice as “courageously making other people’s problems, your problems,” and that’s a huge part of loving our neighbors. Regardless of whether we caused or contributed to problems, love requires that we play a part in correcting them. 

So whether you’re on the receiving end of injustice or seeking justice for others, know this: Jesus provides a way forward. He brings justice, but He allows us to play a role in it. So think about what role you might be called to play, then go do something about it. When you do, you’re loving your neighbor, and even more importantly, you’re becoming more like Christ.

Pray: God, I want justice for everyone. Help me to hear and listen to the voices of those who have been voiceless. Make me empathetic and compassionate. And most of all, please break my heart for the injustices that break Yours. In Jesus’ name, amen.

Challenge: Take time today to pray, repent, and lament for the ways you may have been part of an unjust system.