Word for the day by Christian Education Forum

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Justice and Mercy: Caring for one another

Bible Reading:  Zechariah:7 : 4 -10

Key Verse Vs 8

Verse: 8:  And the word of the Lord came again to Zechariah: “this is what the Lord almighty says: Administer true justice; show justice ,show mercy and compassion to one another”.

 
DEVOTION

  In this bible passage, we find a  poignant reminder about the intertwined nature  of  justice and mercy, emphasizing out duty to care for another. Prophet  was speaking to a community that had been questioning  the practices and rituals they observed, particularly concerning fasting and mourning. God's response, delivered through Zechariah, reveals deeper truths about what God  truly desires  from His people.
JUSTICE AND  MERCY: A DIVINE EXPECTATION  (4-7)
       Here we see, God instructs the prophet to remind the people that the rituals should not merely be an outward expression, but should reflect their inner  commitment to righteousness. God  asks: “when you fasted and mourned... was it for me that fasted?  This question challenges us to reflect our intentions and motivations. 
CALL TO CARE   (8-9)
        God emphasizes the importance of justice and compassion. He commands  the people to administer true justice, show mercy, and care for one another.  We are  reminded that our faith is demonstrated through our actions towards others. Caring for the marginalized, the poor and  the oppressed is a direct reflection of our love for God.
THE WARNING AGAINST HARDNESS (10)
       God warns against oppression, scheming, and evil intentions toward one another.
When we turn a blind eye to injustice or fail to show mercy, we risk hardening our hearts.  This portion serves  as a powerful reminder that our spiritual health is directly tied to how we treat those around us.  A life  lived in accordance  with God's heart is characterized by empathy, kindness and a relentless pursuit of justice.
KEY POINTS:  Genuine worship is not ritual obligation.  Justice and mercy are not optional. Keep our hearts  soft and responsive to God's leading.
         Let us strive  to embody the heart of God, fostering a community where justice and mercy flow abundantly , caring for one another as a reflection of our love  for Him.

PRAYER

 Lord ,give us a heart responsive to your leading, practice justice , mercy and compassion to our marginalized brethren, thereby it will reflect our genuine worship and Love acceptable in your presence.  Amen.

 

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY

 Are we genuinely seeking  to align  our hearts with God's will?    OR, Is our worship nothing but ritualistic?


Dr.John K.Thomas Tabor  MTC NY

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