From Shirli Congoo

What Does God Require?

ACT JUSTLY, LOVE MERCY, WALK HUMBLY

It was my first time in the big city of Sydney. I was there for ministry studies. After class, I took a walk through the vibrant streets with flashing lights, rich aromas, diverse cultures and endless shopping outlets. My heart was full. But as I turned a corner near my hotel, I nearly tripped over a man lying in an alleyway with all his belongings. We both got a fright. He apologised, and I assured him it was me who wasn’t watching. I asked if he was okay, and he shared his story. He had been disconnected from loved ones and was unseen in a city of millions.

Coming from an Aboriginal community, where kinship means no one is truly homeless, I struggled to process his reality. I shared my faith and how unjust his situation felt in today’s world. It bothered me. His response? “You could’ve walked past, but you stopped. It’s not your burden to carry.” That moment challenged me deeply. It was a lesson in humility, mercy and justice.

Micah 6:8 (NIV) says:

“He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.”

This verse is a clear and powerful reminder of God’s heart. It doesn’t ask for rituals or perfection, it calls us to live with justice, mercy and humility. These are not abstract ideas; they are daily choices. In moments of uncertainty, this Scripture anchors us in what truly matters.

That encounter in Sydney stirred something deep within me. I didn’t have the answers, and I couldn’t fix his situation, but I could listen. I could help the man feel seen. And somehow, that mattered. Micah 6:8 reminds us that God doesn’t require perfection, he asks us to live justly, love mercy and walk humbly.

Justice isn’t just about systems; it’s also about seeing people. Mercy isn’t just about forgiveness; it’s about compassion. Humility isn’t weakness; it’s strength under God’s guidance. In a world that often rushes past the hurting, we are called to pause, to notice and to respond with love.

Growing up in a culture rooted in relationship and reciprocity, I’ve seen how powerful it is when people are truly seen and valued regardless of their situation. That man reminded me that even small acts – like stopping to talk – can carry the weight of God’s love. We may not be able to carry every burden, but we can reflect the heart of Jesus in how we respond.

Reflection

• When was the last time you paused to truly see someone who is often overlooked?
• How can you show mercy in your everyday interactions – especially when it’s inconvenient?
• What does walking humbly with God look like in your current season of life?

Prayer

Lord, thank you for showing us what is good. Help me to act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with you. Give me eyes to see those around me the way you do, and a heart that responds with compassion. When I feel overwhelmed or unsure, remind me that small acts of love matter. May my life reflect your grace in every step I take. In your name, Amen.