I have no other words better than my own mother’s to express the true meaning—and purposefulness—of biblical justice. This is the justice that Jesus calls us to and the kind of hopeful, mission minded focus God hopes for. Inspired by Micah 6:8, Amos 5:24, and Jesus’ overall concerns for others, she wrote the hymn below.
Hear Again the Cry for Justice
Hear again the cry for justice, hear again the prophet’s call,
“Like the mighty, flowing waters, let the streams of goodness fall.”
May the words that God has given pierce our selfish apathy
’til, with joy, we turn to live them, ’til we heed the prophet’s plea.
In a world of sin and anger, in a world where cynics scorn,
Millions weep in helpless hunger, refugees and orphans mourn.
Rise, O Church, to meet the challenge, lift the fallen, help the weak,
Change the laws that breed corruption, speak for those who cannot speak.
While we play in mindless leisure, feasting much and wasting more,
Others die, diseased and fearful, plagued by famine, greed, and war.
Yet God’s call to right and justice echoes still, across the years,
“Turn from sin to joyful service, wipe away your neighbor’s tears.”
Hear again the words of Scripture, linger long at Jesus’ feet.
Let the message grow within us ’til our prayers and actions meet.
May we listen, may we worship, then obey the Spirit’s prod,
Doing justly, loving mercy, walking humbly with our God.
- Diane Jordan
Well said Mom!
With love, gratitude and great pride,
David
