Living Out JusticeSample

Protecting the vulnerable

‘So the young men who had done the spying went in and brought out Rahab, her father and mother, her brothers and sisters and all who belonged to her. They brought out her entire family and put them in a place outside the camp of Israel.’ (Joshua 6:23, NIV)

Reflect:

Rahab’s story is a powerful testament to the transformative nature of faith-driven protection. She risked everything to shield the vulnerable and, repaying her kindness, Joshua secures the future of her family when Jericho was taken by the Israelites.

Her transition from protector to being protected reminds us that when we extend care to others, we often find that grace returned to us in unexpected ways. The kindness she showed became the kindness she received, and her faith opened doors not just for survival but for restoration and honour.

In today’s world, protecting the vulnerable may look different, but the heart of Rahab’s story remains the same. Who are the people in your community who need shelter physically, emotionally or spiritually? How can your faith compel you to step out in courage for someone else’s well-being?

Rahab’s legacy of courageous kindness continues to be emphasised in the genealogy of Jesus in Matthew 1, which points to her as the mother of Boaz, a man known for his own acts of kindness in the Book of Ruth. Her story shows that when God is respected and honoured in our lives, great transformation is possible!

Daily Action:

At one time, I was ministering to homeless families living under bridges. These families lacked food, jobs and security, especially for their children who were at high risk of being kidnapped. My role was to teach them basic languages and numbers, and to equip them to manage personal hygiene.

Each day, I would begin by washing their faces and hands. Sitting on mats, we would start the day in conversation. The children would share in a morning devotion with me and one day I taught them a simple chorus: ‘Praise and homage goes up, and these bring blessings from above. Our God is great, and he loves us a lot.’ That day, I considered what ‘blessings’ mean to those without necessities, without safety, without protection. How can we assist in providing blessings from positions of security and privilege?

You could offer support to emergency shelters. In many communities, systems are in place to care for those who need urgent protection. Connect with existing shelters and refuges to learn how you can support their efforts through the provision of supplies or by volunteering in-person assistance.

You could also create a safe space for individuals who are in need of emotional care, due to feeling low, lonely or isolated. As you meet, consider engaging in a shared activity, like reading or exercising or making music, as this helps to build connection and trust. Provide opportunities to go deeper than surface-level conversation and be prepared to speak encouragement over those who gather.

Prayer:

God, may I remember the vulnerable. May I remember and give thanks for the many blessings you have given to me. Help me to protect those who need shelter and to love those who need friendship.

Inhale: Lord, make me a refuge for others.

Exhale: Let your love flow through me.