Finding Freedom: Embracing Jesus’ Revolutionary Message in a World of Injustice
Day 5 – January 5
Genesis 30, 31; Matthew 5; Psalm 101
Can we demand justice?
Anyone who thinks Jesus is some weak, cardboard-like, soft, pansy of a man has not been properly introduced. Even a brief perusal of the Sermon on the Mount, found in Matthew 5, reveals that our Jesus is a revolutionary.
He challenges the existing system, not by attempting to change it, but by offering an alternative path, beckoning us to rise above. He invites us to ascend higher.
Reform is essential, but I am convinced that the only way to achieve lasting reform, to rectify the rampant injustices surrounding us, is to first break free from the constraining system itself.
In this era of cancel culture, where mob mentality reigns, it’s evident that vilifying each other won’t lead to peace or justice. The “us vs. them” mindset will never bring about the Kingdom. Peace cannot be achieved through endless arguments and debates.
I’m not suggesting that there’s no value in constructive dialogue, in genuinely considering different viewpoints. There is immense value in doing so. However, when it devolves into protesting and shouting matches, we’ve lost our way.
Jesus, the revolutionary, offers a different path—The Way. His words aren’t for the faint of heart. What He advocates is challenging and almost impossible to embrace until we grasp the wisdom and grace behind His call.
He put it this way:
Matthew 5:38-42 (TPT)
“Your ancestors were told, ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you, don’t respond to evil with more evil. If someone insults you by slapping your right cheek, offer the other cheek as well. If someone sues you for your coat, give them your shirt too. If those in authority take advantage of you, go above and beyond their demands. Learn to share generously with those who ask for help, and don’t close your heart to those in need.”
At first glance, it may seem as though Jesus is promoting injustice. Is He asking us to be doormats? To passively endure exploitation? How is that fair?
But here’s the truth: The world isn’t fair. Our mamas told us this long ago, and they were right.
Jesus isn’t commissioning us to reform a corrupt system. He’s inviting us to step out of it altogether. He’s inviting us to live in and from a different realm, where our responses come from a heavenly place.
Did you know that we are seated with Christ in heavenly places? We are free! We are no longer bound by that system. We don’t have to react defensively. Nothing can be stolen from us. Nothing can separate us from God’s love.
Jesus is introducing us to the Gospel, the Good News! We are free to live for Him, to live and operate within His Kingdom.
Are you facing injustice? How much of your resources and energy has it already consumed? Have you tried to set it right? To force a different outcome or make someone see their errors?
How weary are you?
Perhaps it’s time to revisit the Sermon on the Mount, to let Jesus’ words challenge your perspective. But you might wonder, “Isn’t God a God of Justice? Doesn’t He care about fairness?”
Our Father is both good and just. He will eventually judge the earth and set everything right. In the meantime, while we often experience the delay of justice and the Kingdom, He invites us to tap into the fullness of His heart. This is the now, and not quite yet of the reality of heaven. He has planted eternity in our hearts. We are here and we are there.
If you find yourself in the throes of injustice, if you’re feeling the pain, don’t lose hope. Don’t give up. Ascend! Say yes to Jesus and go up higher.
Deepening Faith: Reflective Journal Prompts on Transformation and God’s Timing
- Reflect on a personal experience with injustice that left you feeling drained and frustrated. How did you initially respond to the situation, and what were the results? Consider what alternative response you might have chosen if you had applied the principles discussed in the Sermon on the Mount.
- Take a moment to explore your understanding of justice and fairness. How has your perception of these concepts evolved over time? Do you believe that true justice can be achieved within existing systems, or do you resonate with the idea of transcending the system to find a different path?
- Imagine yourself sitting down with Jesus, discussing the revolutionary ideas presented in Matthew 5. How would you express your doubts and concerns about turning the other cheek and responding to evil with kindness? What questions would you ask Him, and how might His responses reshape your perspective?
- Consider a current issue or conflict in the world that you feel passionate about. How can you apply the principles of seeking a higher perspective and responding with love and generosity to this particular situation? What steps can you take to promote peace and justice in your own way?
- Explore your personal journey of spiritual growth and freedom. Have you experienced a transformation in how you react to challenging situations or injustices over time? How has your faith played a role in this transformation, and what aspects of your spiritual journey do you want to further develop in response to the blog post’s message?
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This is awesome!