Restart: Compassion and JusticeSample

TECHNOLOGY Withholding technology as a means of controlling other nations goes back a long time. Ancient Israel’s neighbors, the Philistines, were cultured people, especially good at metalwork, which was an advantage that allowed them to oppress the Israelites for so long. Iron was valued for its strength and hardness and was used to make objects such as axes, chisels, hoes, ploughs, and weapons. The Philistines kept the ironworking technology to themselves and, therefore, Israel was dependent upon the Philistines for repairing their agricultural tools. The Israelites had no choice but to pay exorbitant prices. People can be starved of technology, just as they can be starved of food. They can be denied the opportunity to develop the tools they need in order to advance. Technologically advanced nations with state-of-the-art computers, Internet access, and the like may well say, “It’s all ours and we’ll allow you some of it, but only if you can pay.” In this way, they seem to be saying to the poor, “This way we can keep you poor, and charge you high prices at the same time.” How do you think the Israelites felt, knowing that they had to keep going to the Philistines for tools? How would you have felt? How often do you upgrade your computer or other technology? How do you respond to those in your city who don’t have the technology you have? What will you do to help provide technology for the “have-nots?" Pray: God, you desire the best for all people and you protect the poor. Use me to advance their well-being, further their plans, and to help them achieve self-sufficiency. Guide me in your ways. Make me like you, Lord.