Scripture: Jeremiah 33:15-16
In those days and at that time I will cause a righteous Branch to spring up for David; and he shall execute justice and righteousness in the land. In those days Judah will be saved and Jerusalem will live in safety. And this is the name by which it will be called: “The Lord is our righteousness.”
Thought for the Day: I had been listening to the news on the radio as we were driving home last night, and word came that the second suspect was in custody. As soon as I got home, I turned on the TV and the text across the screen read, “Justice is Done”. It had to be an amazing relief for the people of Greater Boston, and though it might be the first step toward judicial justice, I’m looking toward a Biblical justice and righteousness. These two words are intrinsically tied together in scripture. Too often we have allowed justice to be defined as nothing more than revenge or imprisonment of the bad person. What God, and the righteous way of God, desire for the world is justice in terms of things coming back into harmony through forgiveness, absolution, reconciliation and healing. It is not easy, but it is so very important if God’s righteousness is to prevail. With one suspect dead, and assuming suspect two is eventually found guilt and imprisoned, there remains broken lives and fearful communities. That is not God’s justice. As people of faith, we need to be participants in what God is already doing among us – the setting right of all things…all things! That’s the bigger picture of justice found in the Hebrew prophets and in the life of Jesus.
Prayer: Lord, we give you thanks for all those who shared in the apprehension of those who brought fear and suffering to Boston and people everywhere. Let us take a deep breath, find renewed connection with you, and seek your just-ness and right-ness for all people who remain hospitalized, grieving, anxious and tormented by these events. Let us seek the ways of Jesus, ways that lead to real healing, peace and renewal. Amen.
SUNDAY’S SERMON
BEGINNING THIS WEDNESDAY
All those interested
in helping to raise healthier kids…
