Why Should Christians Do Justice by Morgan Keach
Jesus is about to enjoy dinner at a particular pharisees house. Instead of washing up first, as the law requires, he just starts digging in to the food. Imagine the horror! Doesn’t Jesus know you are suppose to wash before eating or else you are defiled? The indignant pharisee begins questioning Jesus about it, but the man gets way more than he bargained for! Jesus uses the question to scold the pharisees and the lawyers present, for a number of things even calling them “fools” at one point. One of the lines is particularly striking .
“But woe to you Pharisees! For you tithe mint and rue and every herb, and neglect justice and the love of God. These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.” Luke 11:42
There is a danger that is present throughout the scriptures. The danger is that we may do a host of religious things without actually engaging in the very thing God is desiring of us. Take for example the scripture above. The Pharisees were people that were trying very hard to live a pleasing life before God. Yet in there pursuit of living out the law to the “T” they are rebuked sharply. What are they rebuked for? They “..neglect justice and the love of God”.
Are you tithing? Praying? Worshipping God? Are you witnessing to unbelievers? Are you attending church? Studying your bible? “These you ought to have done, without neglecting the others.” What are the others? Justice and the Love of God!
So participate in all that God is asking of us… but make sure you participate in Justice and the Love of God.
