Over 2700 years ago, the prophet Micah gave voice to the downtrodden and exploited people of Judean society. His message is still pertinent today and directs our hearts and daily lives:
“He has showed you, O man, what is good.
Micah 6:8 (NRSV)
And what does the Lord require of you?
To act justly and to love mercy
and to walk humbly with your God.”
Today in America, we are witnessing the rise of Christian nationalism where a fundamentalist interpretation of Scriptures has been mingled with patriotism, white supremacy, and cult-like allegiance to politicians. The hatred and vitriol spewed by many who claim to be followers of Jesus is mind boggling, especially when you consider this command from Jesus:
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.”
John 13:34-35 (NRSV)
Now, more than ever, we must reach out to the vulnerable and oppressed. We must acknowledge systemic and structural racism in our communities and even in some of our churches. We must open our eyes to see oppression where we’ve been conditioned to see laziness and dependence. We must stay humble and listen to those who are different from us, and we must believe them when they share their lived experience.
And then we can share the hope that lives within us.
We are His hands and feet.
We are the good news.