Shanice and Tamara had been friends since college. After graduation, the two decided to share an apartment as roommates. Shanice wanted to live in the renovated town houses where an old housing project had once stood. Many people who had lived their entire lives in the housing project had been forced to move as the area gentrified. When Shanice and Tamara toured the neighborhood with a leasing agent, Shanice was impressed. After the tour, she said, “This area definitely fits my image. It looks very upscale.” Tamara was quiet while Shanice talked to the leasing agent. Tamara walked out of the office while Shanice continued to talk. Shanice told the leasing agent that she would call her tomorrow.
When Shanice came outside, she saw Tamara talking to a homeless person. Shanice called out to her. “Come on, Tamara. We’re going to be late for our appointment.” Tamara finished talking to the person and approached Shanice. “What are you talking about? We don’t have any appointments this afternoon,” said Tamara, looking confused. “I know we don’t have any appointments. I just wanted to give you an opportunity to get away from that homeless man. I know you are drawn to anyone who needs help.” Tamara shook her head. “That homeless man’s name is Albert. He used to live here before they renovated this building. He told me that several former residents of this building are now either homeless or living in a shelter”
“Why is that my concern?” asked Shanice. “You’ve given your life to God, right?” asked Tamara.
“Yes. I go to church and I give my tithes. That should be enough,” retorted Shanice. “Well, it’s not. When we see something that is unfair, God wants us to take action. God does not stand for injustice or complacency. Your heart should be focused on sharing God’s love with everyone regardless of their appearance–not just on material possessions. When you give your life to God, He expects your life to reflect Jesus Christ. It’s not about you, Shanice; it’s about God and living for Him
Seek good, and not evil, that ye may live: and so the LORD, the God of hosts, shall be with you, as ye have spoken. Hate the evil, and love the good, and establish judgment in the gate: it may be that the LORD God of hosts will be gracious unto the remnant of Joseph…I hate, I despise your feast days, and I will not smell in your solemn assemblies. Though ye offer me burnt offerings and your meat offerings, I will not accept them: neither will I regard the peace offerings of your fat beasts. Take thou away from me the noise of thy songs; for I will not hear the melody of thy viols. But let judgment run down as waters, and righteousness as a mighty stream.
(Amos 5:14-15, 21-24)
God created all of humanity. God expects us as Christians to be fair and just with everyone. He expects us to stand up and take action when we encounter injustice. We can pray to God for strength to act against injustice in all areas of our lives. The religious leaders whom he encountered did not intimidate Amos. He had a prophetic message from God that he spoke boldly. Today, God can give us courage to stand for justice and against injustice.
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