Justice: Standing in the Gap Намуна

Sticking Out Like a Sore Thumb

In our world, a common response to being hurt by someone is to find a way to get back at them: “I don’t get mad; I get even.” Consider the constant exchange of insults we sometimes see on social media or the retaliation of an athlete toward an opponent who breaks the rules. For many, getting revenge is a justifiable response.

But does justice require us to get even? Jesus claims that a just response to mistreatment is not retaliation but seeking reconciliation with opposers or enemies through the strength of genuine love (Matthew 5:23-24,43-44). To live this way is to bow out of the mainstream ways of retribution. It’s a choice to live differently, as an exile within a world that glorifies getting even.

When we choose not to get even with our perceived enemies, we display the goodness and justice of God’s kingdom to those around us. If a boss demeans you during a work meeting, you may feel the urge to respond with an insult. But if you decide to gently call out their behavior instead of throwing more fuel on the fire, you are revealing a just and better way of relating to those who mistreat you.

Reflection

When a family member, friend, or stranger mistreats you, how kind of emotions are stirred? What might be a typical reaction in these instances?

What might it look like to hold them accountable for their behavior without retaliating?