The meaning of justice

'Learn to do right; seek justice. Defend the oppressed. Take up the cause of the fatherless; plead the case of the widow.' (Isaiah 1:17)

What would a Christian society truly look like?

Would it be one in which everyone goes to church? One in which we all read the Bible every day? One in which worship music tops the charts?

If we follow God's word, a Christian society would be one that is free from inequality. One in which people looked after each other with kindness and compassion. Christianity is more than church numbers – it's about justice. To build God's kingdom is to lift up those who have been cast down. Without doing that, we are missing the whole point. Old and New Testaments both are emphatic with this (Deuteronomy 27:19; Amos 5:21-24; Matthew 7:21; James 1:27).

Earlier in today's passage, God rejects his people's worship. God hates it. Why? Because there is injustice in the land. Because the cries of the marginalised are going unheeded. Because his people are not looking after those in need.

Would God want to receive our worship today? It is a challenging question. But one that must be asked.

God of justice, have mercy on your church. We recommit ourselves to your will – the will that says seek justice and defend the oppressed. Amen.

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