In recent weeks I’ve been reflecting on how I can use what I have to help, empower or show compassion to others in my community. I’m not talking about just financially helping people out, trust me, I’m not exactly rolling in money.
What I mean is something the Bible sums up quite nicely – to “act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly”. I’m deeply challenged by these words, particularly in light of the social justice issues and crises that our world has faced this year.
It can even seem overwhelming when we start to look at all of the things that are troubling in this world. All it takes is one glance at the news to know that there’s a lot of brokenness out there.
People are grieving the loss of loved ones as a result of this pandemic.
Communities of people of colour are speaking out against injustices throughout history and tragedies that are still happening today.
Hundreds of men, women and children are fleeing dangerous situations every day seeking safety.
These are just a few heart-breaking circumstances that are happening in our world right now.
As much as I want to ‘fix’ it all, I have to trust that a greater power (God) is on it.
But I can be responsible for my actions. I can be responsible for using whatever I have for the good of others.
It can be easy to want to keep things to ourself and protect our kin in hard times. However, I know how grateful I have been when I have been the underdog, or the sick person, or the grieving child and some kind person has helped me.
Act justly – can we speak out against injustices that you see with a heart that seeks to see a positive change in our city?
Love mercy – can we be quick to forgive our neighbour and consider that perhaps they are acting in a certain way because they are experiencing something that we aren’t aware of?
Walk humbly – how can I do better? We can all grow. We can all learn from each other.
How can I use my home, my family, my finances or just a helpful hand to bless someone?
How can I use my voice to empower and advocate for those who are struggling?
For an example of how to do this, I look to how Jesus acted in the Bible.
Loving his neighbour.
I am convinced that this world will see more peace and restoration if we can learn to embrace justice, mercy and humility – and above all, love.
23 Feb 2021
thoughts with siân 