Happy are those whose help is the God of Jacob, whose hope is in the Lord their God, who executes justice for the oppressed; who gives food to the hungry.” vss. 5, 7
Psalm 146:5-9
The psalmist was aware of the words of the prophets who trekked all around the countries of Israel and Judah lambasting the rich and speaking on behalf of the poor. In their minds God has a heart for the oppressed and desires that the hungry be fed. Jesus echoed those words and lived them out as he carried out his ministry in Galilee. And since God has no hands but ours, this has become the primary mission of Jesus’ followers throughout all generations. In fact, it’s very likely that in the recent election believers cast their votes for leaders who would join them in working on behalf of the oppressed. And even though there is no such thing as a Christian nation, it is possible for legislative bodies to adopt policies that will address the needs of the growing number of homeless and hungry people in the world. And while we are blessed to live in a country that separates church and state, leaders of faith communities will regularly act as advocates for the poor at meetings of those legislative bodies. If we’re going to be faithful to the teachings of Jesus, it’s one of the most important things we can do. After all, we are the voice of the broken and oppressed.
Thought for the Day: How is my congregation engaged in advocacy?
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