Week Of Prayer For Christian Unity 2019Exemplo

Let justice roll down like waters 

Reflection

Christians can sometimes be very committed to prayer and worship, but less concerned for the poor and the marginalized. Sometimes we pray in church, but at the same time oppress our fellow human beings or exploit the environment. Christians in Indonesia recognize that in their land there are people who passionately try to practise their faith, but who oppress those of other beliefs, even using violence in doing so. But in the Gospel of Luke, Jesus reminds us that the outward sign of true worship of God is acting justly. He is fierce in his condemnation of those who neglect this obligation. 

In the prophecy of Amos, God rejects the worship offered by those who neglect justice, until they ‘let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream’ (5:24). The prophet insists on the absolute link between worship and doing deeds of justice. When Christians work together to listen to the cry of the poor and the oppressed, they grow in communion with one another and with the Triune God.

Prayer

God of the widow, the orphan and the stranger, 

You have shown us the path of justice. 

Help us to follow your way by doing justice as our worship of you. 

As Christians together, may we worship you not only with our hearts and minds, but also by our deeds.

May the Holy Spirit help and guide us to work for justice wherever we are, 

so that many people may be strengthened through our works. 

 In the name of Jesus. Amen.