Matthew 12:14–21

 

What is justice?

So often I feel entitled, that I am owed something. For so many of us, pride accompanies our drive for "success". What is perceived as a good career, or ideal family structure, or living environment, surrounds me in my daily interactions and ways of life. 

In actuality though, who am I, in the grand scheme of things? Almost nothing. A speck of dust, and all the more reminded of this during the season I write this in (Lent). 

It is Jesus who I must strive to emulate- He is my Rabbi, yet I so struggle with incorporating his ways, his meekness, and loving others without desiring power, glory, or something else in return.

As declared in the book of Isaiah, He does not cry out when He is wronged. He does not fight to correct others, but is gentle and perfect in grace. The "bruised reed" (Isaiah 42:3, quoted in Matthew 12:20) is a metaphor for He who is weak, downtrodden, or spiritually broken. It is frequently paired with "a dimly burning/smoldering wick," which represents those whose faith or spirit is nearly extinguished, but who will not be ignored by Christ.

I am in a constant state of battle of conflicts, right versus wrong, submissive versus dominant, malleable versus inflexible. I ask God to lead me, so that I can become more like Jesus Christ, but for me, this must be an active exercise. It is not inherent within me but a task I must consciously train toward. This is where prayer and engaging in the Living Word is critical. Help me Lord to separate myself from the distractions of my Earthly world, and seek first and foremost your way, through becoming little and humble. Not my perception of justice, but Thy Will be done.

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