Forward Movement is an official, non-profit agency of the Episcopal Church whose mission is to create compelling content for Christian living. Since 1935 we have published the quarterly devotional Forward Day by Day, as well as pamphlets, booklets, and books that encourage and nourish people in their lives of prayer and faith.
MONDAY, April 18 Monday in Holy Week
Isaiah 42:1-9. Here is my servant, whom I uphold, my chosen, in whom my soul delights; I have put my spirit upon him; and he will bring forth justice to the nations.
Today’s passage from Isaiah has to do with justice. Justice is a delicate subject. Maybe even more so is my writing about justice as a former prisoner.
Is “an eye for an eye” justice or, as Gandhi said, does it leave everyone blind? Is forgiveness justice or, as many believe, does that leave too much wiggle room and no accountability?
Justice and forgiveness can appear to be opposites, depending on your approach. Both can be night or day, depending on whether you’re seeking justice or doling it out.
One thing I know, from experiencing culpability and surrender, is that it helps to give up my “right” to define justice, especially for another, and to trust the Creator with that. On a personal level, when I am wrong, I work on accepting the fact that I long ago surrendered my vote on what justice should look like to the aggrieved.
Standing flawed and in need of forgiveness, this bruised reed and smoldering wick is heartened to know there is a realm where I won’t be broken off or snuffed out.
PRAY for the Diocese of Nasik (North India)
Ps 36:5-11; Hebrews 9:11-15; John 12:1-11
View the daily Lectionary Readings at Satucket.com.
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