Do Justice

Lent has been a time of reflection, and recently, I've been thinking about justice and basic human rights. As United Methodists, these aren't just abstract ideas – they are rooted in our faith and clearly articulated in our Social Principles, recently updated at General Conference (read them here).

Our Social Principles affirm that all individuals are entitled to basic human rights and freedoms, a truth grounded in God's creation and revealed through Jesus' love. As a church, we are called to actively protect these rights within our community, work to reform society so everyone can flourish, and to stand against any attempt to deny dignity and basic rights.

So, how do we live out this call to justice? Here’s a simple plan:

Pray Intentionally: Let us consistently lift up prayers for justice, both in our personal lives and for the wider world, including our nation.

Reflect on Our Vows: Throughout Lent, we've revisited our membership vows. Let's remember our commitment to renounce evil, resist injustice and oppression, and serve Christ. These aren't just words; they are a call to action.

Seek Understanding: Take some time to read the excerpts from our Social Principles (at the link above). Consider how these principles apply to our community and the world around us.

Look for Opportunities: Even in small ways, we can live out our commitment to justice. This might involve supporting organizations working for human rights, speaking out against injustice when we see it, or simply treating everyone with the dignity they deserve.

May God empower and use us to do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God!