Women and JusticeSample

In Micah 6:8 (NIV) we find a clear command from God to His people …” act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.” If I had to pick someone that illustrates obedience to this divine order, I would name Mary, the mother of Jesus. Her precious humility is on display as she surrendered: “I am the Lord's servant… May your word to me be fulfilled.” (Luke 1:38 NIV). Through the centuries, artists have colored her face in mercy—at times standing next to the cross, not allowing herself to look away, as the Son suffers and her heart is pierced by a thousand swords. In other expressions, cradling His lifeless body in defeated agony. But, you would ask “what about the act justly”, part?

Mary receives from the angel Gabriel the news that, through her womb, the promised Messiah would come to the world. This decedent of David, according to the Jews, was coming to set things in the right order. Or in other words, to establish a righteous kingdom that was to default into peace. Can you imagine what went through the mind of this young woman! If that was me, soon after the initial shock, I would count the cost: pregnancy outside marriage… if they don’t kill me, the least that can happen is Joseph leaves me, my father’s household in shame, being kicked out of the community”. To do justice is costly. I believe that Mary counted the cost and decided to do her part in fostering that hope of everlasting justice: to be a mom.

The right to life is the most elemental of rights. But what society values has changed. Motherhood is seen as an impediment to obtain what really matters: money and position. The Kingdom of God has a very different value system. To God, the smallest, the most vulnerable are worthy of the greatest sacrifice.

Mary agreed with God. When the great Mesiah came to the world He couldn’t even change his own dirty diaper. He needed a mother willing to sacrifice her own life to give Him the chance to be what God wanted Him to be.

In a world with the mantra of, “me first and my own personal safety”, where people are quick to burn their children on the altar of convenience, the story of Mary’s motherhood points to a very different principle: justice, mercy, and humility no matter the cost.

Reflect:

• Do you know a single mom that could use some encouragement today?
• Are you aware of what your church or other local churches are doing to uphold the right to life?

Pray: Lord, I understand that, to walk in justice can have a personal cost that will many times interfere with my comfort, my plans, and what is convenient. Give me grace to always say “yes” to what is right. Father, thank you for the women that, following Mary’s example, are sacrificing dreams and security to give a little child the possibility to exist. They are showing to the world your selfless heart. Bless them and their little ones. May they find people that will support them and encourage them. Allow me to see motherhood as you see it, not as an useless task, but as a symbol of your great love and compassion. Amen.