Hearing Petitions
God on Monday
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And the Lord said, ‘Listen to what the unjust judge says. And will not God grant justice to his chosen ones who cry to him day and night? Will he delay long in helping them? (Luke 18: 6-7)
Reflection
How often do you think about the power you hold? In my training for ordained ministry, I am frequently encouraged to think about this because it will shape how people interact with me. But it is important in considering all our working relationships.
In this parable, the judge holds power but he does not fear God or respect other people. He certainly does not value a poor widow petitioning him. Eventually, he gives her justice simply because he is tired of her persistence.
The parable teaches that God will grant justice to those who cry to him. Persistence is needed not because God is hard of heart, as the judge is, but because we are still waiting for the perfect justice of the kingdom of God to come in all its fullness.
It is easy, when reading this parable, only to identify with the widow. It thereby serves as an encouragement to pray faithfully, even though the wait for God’s justice may feel unending. But what if we put ourselves in the judge’s shoes?
Many of us are in positions of power in our everyday lives because we have the ability to make life better or worse for other people. When they approach us for help in the face of injustice, should we hold back because the kingdom has not yet fully come, or should we seek justice on their behalf?
Response
How is God calling you to use your power to bring about justice? What decisions do you need to make that will respect other people as God’s image bearers? How might you encourage other people to do likewise? Ask the Spirit to guide you in discerning how to act justly.
Prayer
Lord, help us to recognize where we have power that we can use to help others. May your Spirit guide us as we seek to make good decisions and pursue justice. Amen.
Next Steps
Take time to reflect on the power you hold in relation to other people. Think not just about the role you hold, but also about other characteristics and qualities you possess that give you power. It might help you to map it out visually.
This Week's Author
Hannah Swithinbank, Ordinand, The Church of England
God on Monday is produced in partnership with the Church of England. The reflections are based on the scriptural readings designated for the coming Sunday in the Church's lectionary. You can sign up to Faith in Business here to receive each God on Monday instalment.
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