The Long, High Cost of Justice

The Long, High Cost of Justice - Week Four

Dear Fellow Justice Traveler,

Jesus was a radical leader. Throughout his life and ministry, he boldly spoke against pompous religious leaders and the oppressive systems they perpetuated. He spoke up for the poor and the marginalized. Very practically and with compassion, he kept healing and feeding people through miracles, further demonstrating his liberating God-power. Jesus was also a son, brother, grandson, cousin, uncle, friend, member of Jewish social life and so many other titles we don’t know.

One day, when he was traveling, he turned to the throngs of people who were following him and said, “If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and children, brothers, and sisters—yes, even their own life—such a person cannot be my disciple. And whoever does not carry their cross and follow me cannot be my disciple” (Luke 14:26-27).

Jesus knew that it would cost a lot from those who were following him and his message of the kingdom. He knew because it had cost him a lot. In addition to being driven out of the local synagogue for his message, his mother and brothers worried for his mental health and just wanted him to come home and live a normal, safe life (Mark 3:20-21). Jesus knew that the voices closest to us are powerful motivators of resistance.

Jesus knew that the voices closest to us are powerful motivators of resistance.

The work of resistance, of justice, of restoration is not a fast work and it is a work that does not come cheap. Like the parable of the wise builder (Luke 14:28-33), you must consider the long cost of your efforts in the work of justice.

This investment and sacrifice is a privilege - to sit at the table and serve where needed in an ongoing way. As we serve and invest in this long arc of justice, we are being asked to sacrifice our time, resources and even our relationships. Everyone doing the work is sacrificing. It is our gift to the movement of kingdom justice. As you continue to pick up the mantles set before you, consider your cost so that you can do the work of justice for the long haul.

Prayer:

Dear Lord, we are overwhelmed by so much injustice and we long for Your justice - your kingdom come, your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. As we determine which mantles to pick up in service to you and for your kingdom, help us to have the wisdom to know what is ours to carry and the courage to make the necessary sacrifices. Please help us to consider the cost needed to invest in your kingdom justice, and help us to remain steadfast and serve you always. Amen.

Praying for Strength to Endure,
~Michelle

This devotional series was written by Michelle Ferrigno Warren. Excerpts and themes are from Join the Resistance, Chapter 4, The Long Arc.

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