In Leviticus 19:15 we read “Do not pervert justice”; do not show partiality to the poor or favouritism to the great, but judge your neighbour fairly. Ultimately, God’s concern is for impartial justice. We’re not to show a preference for the rich or the poor, but rather to judge impartially. In this way, human judgment reflects the unprejudiced judgment of God.
David Prior wrote, “Justice and kindness are essential qualities of the nature of God Himself. They do not come down from heaven wrapped in parcels. They are expressed in and through people who walk humbly with God.” Such humility is the root of true justice.
The three words are deceptively simple, yet their weight is unmistakable: justice, kindness, and humility.
These are not optional extras merely for the enthusiastic 'on-fire-for-God-believer’; they are the essence of what it means to know God.
When we follow Christ, we become part of a new, bigger, Christ-exalting and Scripture-honouring family that has dynamic new values, culture, and ethos. That new family places immense value on justice.
The Hebrew word for Justice, mishpat, is not just about punishment for wrongdoing, putting someone right, or correcting them—it’s about setting things right.
This sort of justice concerns the widow, the orphan, the foreigner—the marginalised and voiceless being heard, seen, and restored.
God,
You are the source of human dignity,
and it is in your image that we are created.
Pour out on us the spirit of love and compassion.
Enable us to reverence each person,
to reach out to anyone in need,
to value and appreciate those who differ from us,
to share the resources of our nation,
to receive the gifts offered to us
by people from other cultures.
Grant that we may always promote
the justice and acceptance
that ensures lasting peace and racial harmony.
Help us to remember that we are one world and one family. Amen.
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