Christians are called to embody a different way of life in a world that often prioritizes personal gain over selfless acts. Micah 6:8 in the Bible lays out three transformative qualities that reveal our loyalty and goodness towards our faith: walking humbly, loving mercy, and acting justly. When activated, the working justice is what catapults a believer of Christ into the realm of maturity, marking them true believers in the faith where Christian Character Counts.

According to our Christian framework, justice involves fulfilling the moral and ethical responsibilities the Lord defines to advance love and truth. It encompasses forgiveness and reconciliation, cultivating trust in our relationships. Being just means caring for and assisting those feeble in the faith and life. It means taking responsibility for the problems of those less fortunate, and supporting their growth, even when they offend us or misunderstand God's truth. Jesus taught us, "If your brother or sister sins against you, go and point out their fault, just between the two of you. If they listen to you, you have won them over" (Matthew 18:15).

Jesus urges His followers to pursue righteousness and justice actively, both within and outside the faith, in the world, to exemplify what it means to possess a loving heart and good character. As Christians, we are responsible for cultivating virtues within ourselves and embodying the character of Jesus, empowering us to make wise choices and extend help to those in need or struggling. This commitment to justice promotes God's fairness and discourages concepts of ideological fairness or vigilante actions. When we witness far-fetched fairness or punitive behavior, it signals the need for change.

Incorporating biblical justice requires aligning our understanding and application of justice with the teachings and principles found in the Bible. To begin, studying the Bible is essential in comprehending the togetherness of righteousness and justice as called for by God's grace and truth. Explore passages like Matthew 25:31-46 and James Chapter 1 to deepen your understanding. Additionally, seeking wisdom and discernment through active engagement with a faithful church community is vital. The Church is pivotal in creating justice and driving meaningful change, whether local or universal. We can combine resources, talents, and efforts to address generalized injustices and foster righteousness by working with fellow believers and churches. As the unified body of Christ, we can make an impact now and in the future.

Won't you join the Church in embracing restorative justice and cultivating a stronger Christian character by taking action today? Start by incorporating healthy practices into your daily dealings and relationships, seeking healing, reconciliation, and forgiveness opportunities. Engage in meaningful conversations about God’s justice system and its impact on our communities. Get involved with organizations and initiatives that promote restorative justice and advocate for its implementation in the justice system of the Lord. Together, let us demonstrate the transformative power of justice and contribute to building a more just and compassionate reality. Take the first step towards embracing restorative justice now, where Christian Character Counts.

With love and justice,

~ Pastor Drake