When it comes to protecting the most vulnerable of God’s beloved children, God doesn’t mince words.
“Since there will never cease to be some in need on the earth, I therefore command you, ‘Open your hand to the poor and needy neighbor in your land.’” (Dt. 15:11)
“Thus says the Lord God: ‘Enough, O princes of Israel! Put away violence and oppression, and do what is just and right. Cease your evictions of my people,’ says the Lord God.” (Ez. 45:9)
As preachers, we must proclaim the Christian imperative to lift up the needs of the vulnerable no matter the cost.
And this proclamation takes courage, fortitude, patience and long-suffering.
But we are not the first to face this call.
To that end, I’ve compiled a collection of Scripture, quotations, church prayers, and additional resources to buoy your faith, help you remember that you do not carry this burden alone, and provide guidance for your preaching and leadership over the new few intense weeks.
Here’s a sampling of the insight and encouragement you’ll find:
“With malice toward none; with charity for all; with firmness in the right, as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow, and his orphan—to do all which may achieve and cherish a just, and a lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations.” (Abraham Lincoln).
“Reformers must expect to be disowned by those who are only too happy to enjoy what has been won for them.” (Doris Lessing)
“If you’re going to hold someone down you’re going to have to hold onto the other side of the chain. You are confined by your own system of repression.” (Toni Morrison).
“By trying to claim the ultimate allegiance of its subjects, by seeking religious status, the state claims for itself what rightfully belongs to God.” (Fred Anderson)
At the time of this national election, let us seek God and and the wisdom of the saints who’ve gone before us as we preach.
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