Living Out JusticeSample

United and organised for good

‘So Moses brought their case before the Lord, and the Lord said to him, “What Zelophehad’s daughters are saying is right. You must certainly give them property as an inheritance among their father’s relatives and give their father’s inheritance to them.”’ (Numbers 27:5-7, NIV)

Reflect:

At this time in Israel, women were seen as property of their father or husband and, as such, had no right to own land. The five daughters of Zelophehad dared to challenge the status quo.

With humility and wisdom, the sisters united to counter the cultural norms of the day as they approached Moses, seeking to inherit their father’s land after he had died with no male heirs. Their request was bold and unprecedented. When Moses brought it to the Lord, he declared their plea as just and established a new law allowing women to own land.

This moment, set on the cusp of the Israelites entering the Promised Land, was revolutionary – and not just for women. The women spoke out against and successfully repealed unjust land laws and, in the process, revealed an image of a God who stands alongside women and supports their cause. Their story shows God as fair and just, mindful of the overlooked and disadvantaged.

Daily Action:

In Zelophehad’s daughters, we learn the value of pursuing justice and equality in local community. They considered their situation and challenged injustice. They spoke up and stood up for what was right. Their efforts remind us that faith necessitates action against injustice, no matter how challenging or painful the task seems.

Their courage in advocating for the marginalised, their belief in God’s justice and their partnership is inspiring. The sisters’ story motivates us to speak up in our communities, workplaces and places of worship.

Consider whether you know of a situation where you could act or speak out for change. There may be an injustice that has become ingrained in the culture that it often goes unnoticed. Perhaps you, too, are in the margins, or you’re aware of someone in your community in need of an advocate. First, think carefully about the situation and any desired outcomes. Secondly, do not attempt this alone – think about who you can work with in response.

In the words of Catherine Booth, co-founder of The Salvation Army: ‘You are not here in the world for yourself. You have been sent here for others. The world is waiting for you!’

Prayer:

God, thank you for reminding me to unite with others in Kingdom work. I seek your wisdom and pray that your Holy Spirit will guide me to the places where I can partner in bringing justice to the women in the world.

Inhale: God, you are wise and just.

Exhale: May my life display your wisdom and justice.