The Lord performs righteous deeds and judgments for all who are oppressed. Psalm 103:6
This verse has significance. Certainly, it has theological significance because it’s from God. But, for me, it strikes a resounding chord. Our oldest daughter has struggled in life, and she’s that person in every setting that gets picked on. She’s the one who can maintain her car perfectly, but it still ‘blows up.’ Most of her experience in life is just really hard. Recently, she’s had someone in her apartment complex’s management company that didn’t do what she’s supposed to, causing stress. This injustice brings frustration and, sometimes, anger. In the end, things seem to work out for her, so, to me, she’s a shining recipient of this passage.
David also experienced life where he needed God to exercise ‘righteous deeds and judgments’. Saul, despite knowing his kingdom had ended, tirelessly pursued David to do him harm, and God steered David away. It helped a ton that David revered God so much he wouldn’t harm Saul, despite having opportunities to do so. David honored God, so God honored David.
While ‘being for the little ‘guy’’ doesn’t begin to describe the love of God for all people, it demonstrates the depths of love God has for us. As James outlines (James 2:1-13), our work for the Kingdom is driven by Jesus not our eyes. Our striving should be for all people, no matter their station. Jesus talked to whomever presented themselves to him, from the leper (Matthew 8:1-4), to the rich young man (Mark 10:17-22). He answered their request, which wasn’t always what they wanted to hear.
Denver and the surrounding areas have more and more people, eternal beings, roaming the streets in search of many things. While giving them money may not be prudent, perhaps listen to the Holy Spirit. There are many ways to answer their requests, which could be buying them a meal or taking them to the nearest shelter. All of these responses fit what’s outlined in James 2:15-16. Our call is to represent the Kingdom of God to others. As you go about your day, keep your soul, eyes and ears open, see and hear what’s going on around you, and react as Jesus would.
By Rich Obrecht
