Embodying Justice: A Call to Faithful Resistance
Summary
In today's gathering, we explored the profound responsibility we hold as a community of faith to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in all their forms. This is not a resistance against individuals but against unjust policies and systems. Our baptismal vows call us to this task, and it is crucial that we live into these commitments by embodying the just and loving relationships we wish to see in the world. As Calvin Coolidge wisely noted, progress is not achieved by merely repressing evil but by developing what is good. Therefore, our strategy involves living out the vision of justice and care we aspire to, so that when injustice crumbles, we can present a compelling alternative.
We also discussed the importance of self-care amidst the anxiety and enormity of the challenges we face. Setting boundaries, allowing ourselves to grieve, and connecting with others are vital practices to maintain our well-being and effectiveness in this work. We must remember that our resistance may come at a cost, but we are not alone. We are part of a larger movement, supported by a network of individuals and organizations committed to justice.
Our church's history is deeply rooted in social justice, from John Wesley's anti-slavery stance to the early Methodist advocacy for workers' rights and education. This legacy continues today as we engage with the United Methodist Church's social principles, which guide us in areas such as creation care, economic justice, and political responsibility. We are called to speak truth to power, inspired by the hope that Jesus Christ has given us.
In practical terms, we are encouraged to build relationships with local organizations, participate in protests, and support those on the front lines. Not everyone is called to be on the front lines, but everyone has a role to play. We must also be prepared for the possibility of arrest and support one another in such events. Our resistance is grounded in love, not fear, and we are reminded to pray for those who oppose us, seeking transformation and reconciliation.
Key Takeaways:
- Vision of Justice: Our resistance is not against individuals but against unjust systems. We are called to embody the just and loving relationships we wish to see, presenting a compelling alternative when injustice crumbles. This vision is rooted in our baptismal vows and the teachings of Jesus. [29:42]
- Self-Care and Community Support: Amidst the challenges we face, self-care is essential. Setting boundaries, allowing ourselves to grieve, and connecting with others help maintain our well-being. We are part of a larger movement, supported by a network of individuals and organizations committed to justice. [55:03]
- Historical Roots of Social Justice: Our church's history is deeply rooted in social justice, from John Wesley's anti-slavery stance to early Methodist advocacy for workers' rights and education. This legacy continues today as we engage with the United Methodist Church's social principles. [37:17]
- Role of Prayer and Hope: We are called to speak truth to power, inspired by the hope that Jesus Christ has given us. Our resistance is grounded in love, not fear, and we are reminded to pray for those who oppose us, seeking transformation and reconciliation. [40:08]
- Practical Engagement: Building relationships with local organizations, participating in protests, and supporting those on the front lines are practical ways to engage in resistance. Not everyone is called to be on the front lines, but everyone has a role to play. [45:55]
Youtube Chapters:
- [00:00] - Welcome
- [00:30] - Introduction and Church Update
- [02:15] - Financial Overview
- [05:45] - Special Gift and Capital Expenditures
- [10:30] - Church Updates and Upcoming Events
- [15:00] - Speaking Truth to Power
- [18:30] - United Methodist Church and Social Justice
- [24:43] - Historical Roots of Social Justice
- [29:42] - Baptismal Vows and Resistance
- [37:17] - Social Principles and Political Care
- [40:08] - Hope and Resistance
- [42:18] - Story of Resistance
- [45:55] - Resources and Local Engagement
- [55:03] - Self-Care and Spiritual Practices
- [01:05:00] - Questions and Community Engagement
- [01:13:10] - Supporting Immigrant Communities
- [01:17:43] - Social Justice Committee and Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 25:31-46 - The Parable of the Sheep and the Goats
2. Luke 4:18-19 - Jesus' Mission Statement
3. Amos 5:24 - "But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!"
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#### Observation Questions
1. What does Matthew 25:31-46 teach us about the criteria for being considered righteous in the eyes of God?
2. In Luke 4:18-19, what specific missions does Jesus declare He is anointed to fulfill?
3. How does the sermon describe the role of our baptismal vows in resisting evil and injustice? [29:42]
4. What historical examples of social justice are highlighted from the Methodist tradition in the sermon? [29:42]
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#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the parable in Matthew 25:31-46 challenge our understanding of justice and mercy in our daily lives?
2. What implications does Jesus' mission statement in Luke 4:18-19 have for how we engage with social justice issues today?
3. How can the historical roots of social justice within the Methodist Church inspire current actions against injustice? [37:17]
4. What does the sermon suggest about the importance of self-care in sustaining long-term resistance against injustice? [55:03]
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#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your baptismal vows. How can you actively resist unjust systems in your community while embodying just and loving relationships? [29:42]
2. What are some practical ways you can engage with local organizations to support social justice initiatives? Consider attending a protest or supporting those on the front lines. [45:55]
3. How can you incorporate self-care practices into your routine to maintain your well-being while engaging in social justice work? [55:03]
4. Identify a local policy or system that you believe is unjust. What steps can you take to speak truth to power and advocate for change? [40:08]
5. How can you use prayer as a tool for seeking transformation and reconciliation with those who oppose your views on justice? [40:08]
6. Consider the historical examples of social justice within the Methodist Church. How can these stories inspire you to take action in your own context? [37:17]
7. What specific boundaries can you set to manage anxiety and maintain focus on your mission for justice? [55:03]
Devotional
Day 1: Embodying Justice and Love
Our resistance is not against individuals but against unjust systems. We are called to embody the just and loving relationships we wish to see, presenting a compelling alternative when injustice crumbles. This vision is rooted in our baptismal vows and the teachings of Jesus. By living out this vision, we create a world where justice and love prevail, offering hope and transformation to those around us. Our actions should reflect the change we want to see, and through this, we can inspire others to join in the pursuit of justice. [29:42]
"Let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream." (Amos 5:24, ESV)
Reflection: Consider a relationship or situation in your life where you can embody justice and love more fully. What specific actions can you take today to reflect the change you wish to see?
Day 2: Self-Care in the Midst of Resistance
Amidst the challenges we face, self-care is essential. Setting boundaries, allowing ourselves to grieve, and connecting with others help maintain our well-being. We are part of a larger movement, supported by a network of individuals and organizations committed to justice. By taking care of ourselves, we ensure that we can continue to contribute effectively to the cause of justice. Remember, you are not alone in this journey, and leaning on your community can provide strength and encouragement. [55:03]
"Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest." (Matthew 11:28, ESV)
Reflection: Identify one area of your life where you need to set better boundaries for self-care. What steps can you take this week to prioritize your well-being and connect with supportive individuals?
Day 3: Continuing the Legacy of Social Justice
Our church's history is deeply rooted in social justice, from John Wesley's anti-slavery stance to early Methodist advocacy for workers' rights and education. This legacy continues today as we engage with the United Methodist Church's social principles. We are called to speak truth to power, inspired by the hope that Jesus Christ has given us. By understanding our history, we can draw strength and inspiration to continue the work of justice in our own time. [37:17]
"Learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause." (Isaiah 1:17, ESV)
Reflection: Reflect on the legacy of social justice within your faith community. How can you contribute to this ongoing work in a way that honors those who came before you?
Day 4: Grounded in Love and Prayer
We are called to speak truth to power, inspired by the hope that Jesus Christ has given us. Our resistance is grounded in love, not fear, and we are reminded to pray for those who oppose us, seeking transformation and reconciliation. By approaching resistance with love and prayer, we open the door for healing and change, both in ourselves and in those we encounter. [40:08]
"But I say to you, Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you." (Matthew 5:44, ESV)
Reflection: Think of someone who opposes you or your beliefs. How can you begin to pray for them today, seeking transformation and reconciliation in your relationship?
Day 5: Engaging Practically in the Work of Justice
Building relationships with local organizations, participating in protests, and supporting those on the front lines are practical ways to engage in resistance. Not everyone is called to be on the front lines, but everyone has a role to play. By finding your unique role, you can contribute to the larger movement for justice in a meaningful way. Remember, every action, no matter how small, can make a difference. [45:55]
"Do not neglect to do good and to share what you have, for such sacrifices are pleasing to God." (Hebrews 13:16, ESV)
Reflection: Identify one practical way you can engage in the work of justice this week. How can you use your unique gifts and resources to support those on the front lines?
Quotes
So, you know, we said to our kids, hey, we're going to this protest. Would you like for us to find a sitter or do you want to come with us? Oh, no. We want to come. Okay. Awesome. Awesome. So, you know, we had read to them about civil rights and about, you know, beatings and being put in jail. [00:40:19] (20 seconds)
During the march from Selma to Montgomery, people made meals and delivered them at, you know, each night as they were marching along. So there are people behind the scenes that need to be able to group together to take care of those who are on the front lines. Because not all of us are called to be on the front lines, and that's okay, too. [00:44:28] (21 seconds)
So it's really important that we connect with other people. Not only will it make our protests stronger, but we also get to hear firsthand. Like most of us are in places of privilege and, you know, as people who are not people of color and so or, you know, look like an immigrant. And so it's important that we make those connections. [00:46:41] (23 seconds)
And then what you can do is when somebody comes and says, well, Jesus doesn't say any or you know the Bible doesn't say anything about that, you can say, well actually it does. It says that we're supposed to seek the justice of the people around us. It says that you know we're supposed to let justice roll down like waters. [00:52:19] (20 seconds)
And then when we're responding, we're responding out of love and not out of fear. Because fear leads to anger and hatred and, you know, love leads to challenging, holding accountable, but continuing to be respectful. Next slide, please. So, self-care. I've heard from so many people who've said that they're angry. [00:56:48] (27 seconds)
So one of the things that I have done since all of the some of the injustice that is taking place is I only read the news once a day. I do not read multiple things. I've never watched the news anyway because we don't have television, but you know, so I don't watch it because when you watch it their whole point is to get you upset. [00:57:15] (22 seconds)
God of justice and peace, God of grace and love, we confess to you that sometimes we have a hard time holding the justice and the love together because when we see injustice it angers us and I can't even begin to imagine how it must break your heart as well. And yet because you are God you love both parties in ways that we can't because we're human. [01:23:38] (31 seconds)
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