Proclaim Justice

When Jesus became aware of this, he departed. Many crowds followed him, and he cured all of them, and he ordered them not to make him known. This was to fulfil what had been spoken through the prophet Isaiah: ‘Here is my servant, whom I have chosen, my beloved, with whom my soul is well pleased. I will put my Spirit upon him, and he will proclaim justice to the Gentiles. He will not wrangle or cry aloud, nor will anyone hear his voice in the streets. He will not break a bruised reed or quench a smoldering wick until he brings justice to victory. And in his name the Gentiles will hope.’ Matthew 12:15-21

In these days, we need to hear the ancient words of the prophet Isaiah, now more than ever. God has chosen his Beloved to teach us all about Justice and Peace. We need hope these days! Last night, before bed, I was horrified about the news out of Maine. Mass shootings are a pandemic, destroying innocent lives across our land. And now, all too nearby, was a shooting that took more innocent lives, for no apparent reason. On days like this, I don't know what t do but pray, knowing that God has more blessing for us, despite the gloom that pervades our land.

Blessed Creator, you made all creation good

you gave us hearts to love, minds to reason

you made peace and justice your desire

and taught all nations to see all as relatives.

We have taken defensive posture all too long

not trusting you but counting on ourselves 

we have failed to see the family in our enemy

and the innocents suffer when we act out.

Help us Lord to be agents of your hope

make us ready to work for justice for all

setting aside prejudice and selfish greed

make us the instruments of your love today. Amen.