Monday, September 15, 2014
You shall not spread a false report. You shall not join hands with the wicked to act as a malicious witness. You shall not follow a majority in wrongdoing; when you bear witness in a lawsuit, you shall not side with the majority so as to pervert justice; nor shall you be partial to the poor in a lawsuit. Exodus 23:1-3 NRSV
Exodus calls us to pursue the truth directly and let it speak for itself. When it comes to caring for children, God calls us to learn the facts and put faces on those facts. God’s truth and power for shalom (healing and wholeness, justice and peace) is at its core, relational.
While you can find online eyewitness reports from persons of faith on the front lines and denominational staffers can help you connect directly with children in need around the globe, the best course of action is for you to talk to teachers, social workers, and police in your own community. The effects of poverty, violence, and injustice are all around you. No community is immune.
As you follow God’s call to care for each and every one of God’s precious children remember the guidance of Exodus 23. Amidst popular misrepresentation and
information overload, seek truth and let it speak to your heart. Then prayerfully let your life touch and be touched by children. Your life will be blessed to be a blessing.
Gracious God, motivate and equip us to seek the truth about children suffering from violence, poverty, and injustice in our local and global communities. Guide us to discern your wisdom and reach out to become a significant force against popular misrepresentation, confusion, and helplessness. Help us affirm in word and deed that each and every child is precious in your sight. Amen.
Kate Epperly
Family and Children’s Co-Minister for Disciples Home Missions and the Faith Formation Team of the United Church of Christ
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