The Poetry Of JusticeSample

Once again Isaiah paints a picture of what right devotion to God does and does not look like here. Many religious leaders in his day were notorious for oppressing the poor, pointing accusatory fingers at them and spreading malicious rumours about their ‘laziness or sinful lifestyles.’ 

Sound familiar? Too often we hear Christians blaming the poor for their lot, criticising their character and condemning their situations, when instead we’re called to spend ourselves on their behalf. We are not to offer negative judgments or even occasional help for the oppressed; we’re to do away with ungodly talk and spend ourselves on their behalf, in the same way Christ himself became poor so that we might become rich in him. 

When we do, we will see the miracle again of his light shattering the darkness, so much so that even night will be filled with the brightness of ‘noonday’ hope. 

What is your attitude toward those who live in poverty?