Emmanuel McCall Lenten Devotional: Persistence as a Way to Justice

By Rev. Heather Mustain, Associate Pastor, Wilshire Baptist Church Dallas, Texas

In the parable leading to these verses, Jesus tells of a widow who encounters a corrupt judicial system. This widow faces a judge who, despite his power, “neither fears God nor respects people.” With little social or economic status, she is easily dismissed, yet persistently demands justice from her adversary. Much like other widows in Scripture, her tenacity ultimately wins her the justice she deserves. While her persistence is commendable, it’s troubling that it was required at all. Too often, our systems are set up so that the poor and vulnerable must struggle tirelessly just to be seen, heard or believed. The burden of persistence weighs disproportionately on those already suffering from injustice.

Jesus’ final comments remind us that God is the opposite of this corrupt judge. God’s justice and mercy are swift; God does not delay in answering those who cry out. When we approach God with a faith as persistent as the widow’s, we are met with compassion and justice. Yet, we are left with a challenge: How can we become advocates of a justice that does not delay? Do we hear and act swiftly for those crying out day and night, or do we maintain systems that require the persistence of the vulnerable as their only hope for justice?

Reflection: How can we, as followers of Christ, work to dismantle systems that demand unjust persistence from those already suffering? Where can we act swiftly to bring about God’s justice?

Prayer: Gracious and loving God, in this sacred Lenten season, examine our hearts and guide our actions. Help us to respond to Your call without hesitation. Open our eyes to see the struggles of the marginalized and our ears to hear their cries. May we be moved with compassion and courage to act as Your agents of justice and love without delay. In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.

JUSTICE NOTE

Health Care Disparities