Wednesday, June 1 – Jeremiah 22:3

This is what the Lord says: “Do justice and righteousness, and save one who has been robbed from the power of his oppressor. And do not mistreat or do violence to the stranger, the orphan, or the widow; and do not shed innocent blood in this place.”

It is easy to become discouraged by the broken things we see in the world. We get mad when we hear about a senseless act of violence, and we are shaken when we hear a story of loss and sorrow. If we’re not careful, we allow these feelings to convince us God doesn’t really care about His creation.

These things hurt us, but they first and foremost hurt God, and we are made in His image. When we see so many children orphaned, widows without care, the hurt of refugees, and the loss of babies, we’re heartbroken and so is our Father. We can be confident He cares about these things even more than we do.

When we see injustice, hurt, or loss of the unborn we grieve with hope. We grieve because these things are wrong, not as God intended them to be. But we have hope because we know God will bring ultimate justice to the oppressed. God’s command in today’s verse is for us to join Him in His work. This starts with valuing life as we share His redemptive power with others. Whether it is helping a foster family, caring for a young mom, or crying with a widow, God has chosen to work through you. Take the opportunities you are given to show the value God places on the life of all people.

• How does God’s care for the hurting and oppressed give you hope?
• Who do you know who is struggling with the brokenness of the world through loss or difficulties? How can you show them love?
• Pray and ask God to show you someone to serve who is wrestling with the brokenness of this world.