Justice: Standing in the Gap Намуна

Standing in the Gap

Have you ever been afraid to speak up and defend someone who was being mistreated? Or can you recall a time when you wished someone would have supported you while you were in a vulnerable position?

Justice involves protecting and advocating for those who are vulnerable by stepping in to humbly, patiently, and assertively confront offenders. Imagine a new coworker who receives abusive treatment from colleagues or a child who comes to school with bruises but fears talking about what happened. Both are in positions where they may not be able to address the wrong being done to them.

In situations like these, the biblical authors charge us to “speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves” (Proverbs 31:8, NIV). Jesus shows us how to do this when he speaks up for the little children whom his disciples attempt to hinder (Luke 18:15-17), for the blind man others try to silence (Mark 10:46-52), and for the woman condemned by a religious leader (Luke 7:36-39).

Jesus doesn’t hesitate to stand in the gap between the powerful and the powerless, and he invites us to join him in aiding the defenseless. When we do so, we voluntarily put ourselves in a position where we also may be attacked or mistreated. But standing in solidarity with the vulnerable is at the heart of biblical justice.

Reflection:

Can you think of other examples from the gospels where Jesus helps and supports people who are vulnerable?

Can you think of anyone who has been (or is being) mistreated in your household, church, or workplace? How might God be inviting you to care for and support them?