March 17

Deuteronomy 16:18-21:9 

The Pentateuch (first five books of the Bible) has justice as a key theme. Not only as we look at the Bible, but also as we look at our country, we see the pervasive cry for justice. Yet so often I do not think we fully understand what justice is or for what we are asking. In our reading today, the concerns for justice cover issues like false witnesses, idolatry, selfish kings, lying prophets, and overzealous vengeance. One of the overarching issues in Deuteronomy 16-21 is the character and competency of leaders. God knew if the powerful and influential people drifted from God, then so would the nation. When we read through Judges, we will see how quickly a nation can drift from God and, as a consequence, injustice prevail.

Justice is a societal issue, but it is also personal as Micah 6:8 accentuates: you are “(t)o act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God." We are to be individuals who are seeking to right the wrongs in our lives, communities, cities, and the world. To bring God's kingdom on earth as it is in heaven, we should join with others to seek justice while also pointing them towards the ultimate hope for justice—the return of Christ. As we see people mistreated, ignored, neglected, or abused, we should stand up for God's heart which is justice.

Father God, help me to see how I can step in and be your hands and feet by acting justly, loving mercy, and walking in humility today. Amen.

How can you respond to God's call for justice today?

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