Working for Social Justice
And so we should weep at injustice, as we saw yesterday.
But for Christians, more than any other people, we don't just weep—we start to work towards justice.
Jesus Himself was defined by His heart for justice in the world, especially social justice.
Jesus’ Heart for the Oppressed
His first sermon in Luke 4 is when He famously proclaimed:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on Me, because He has anointed Me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent Me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour.” (Luke 4:18–19)
Jesus’ goal on earth—His mission—was to proclaim good news to the poor, freedom for prisoners, and sight for the blind.
He wanted to do more than just gather to worship, as important as that was. He wanted our communities to make a difference in the lives of those who are struggling.
Faith in Action
The truth is, you cannot call yourself a Christian if you are not concerned, and working to bring about, justice in this world.
God hates it when we forget this. Remember our reading on Monday—He hates it when we worship but don’t take the time to reach the needy and work for social justice.
John Wesley famously said that “there is no gospel but social.” He meant that being a Christian without having a heart for people’s needs is a mismatch.
He taught his people to seek after holiness in two ways: works of piety—such as reading your Bible, praying, and going to church—and works of mercy—doing good to others however you can.
True Christians, for Wesley, always did both of those.
Living Like Jesus
So consider your walk with God, friends. Do you prioritise both works of piety—nurturing your own spiritual life—and works of mercy—caring for people in need?
That’s what Jesus did. Oh, let us live like He did, doing all we can to bring good news, healing, and hope to the poor, the weary, and the struggling.
And you know what, friends? If you don’t have the physical capability to do that, then pray—pray, pray, pray!
Charlie shared, in one of his books, wrote that the most effective social ministry comes out of prayer.
So if you’re confined to your home, pray! Pray for those who are doing this ministry. Pray for a great new passion to rise in your church for social justice to be done—and God will surely use you in a mighty way.
And so yes, friends, be a person who works for social justice.
