There is so much injustice here and around the world- people at the back of the queue for surgery, trapped in a cycle of spiralling debt repayments, homeless on our streets, people facing discrimination and exploitation, languishing in refugee camps or facing persecution. So many people face prejudice and injustice because of where they were born, age, disability, gender, religion- the list goes on.

I worry that we just get used to it. We just accept that life is not fair, and put up with it, for ourselves, our loved ones and the people around us.

Christianity, at its best challenges injustice. In the prophets like Isaiah, Amos and Micah there are repeated calls to treat everyone fairly. The first time I heard Isaiah 58, I was blown away. It is a call for ‘true fasting’ – to treat workers fairly, to share your food with the hungry, to give shelter to the poor, to satisfy the needs of the oppressed. That is how we are meant to live, every day.

Jesus called us to do the same- just think of the sheep and the goats in Matthew 25. Every time we feed the hungry, give a drink to the thirsty, show hospitality to the stranger, look after the sick or visit the prisoner, it is as if we are doing it for Jesus.

We are called to work for justice, to give to those in need, to pray for peace. How we live every day changes the world for good or ill. We can be grumpy and self seeking, or kind and thoughtful. I fail at this every day, but I ask God to change me and make me more like Jesus. If people really lived out their faith, what a difference it would make.

I yearn for a world where people are seen and valued, where people do not live in fear of bullying or violence, where children are safe, the marginalised in safe havens, and where there is justice for all.

There is an inspiring vision of heaven in Revelation 21:3- 4 ‘ now the dwelling of God is with people, and He will be with them. They will be His people, and God will be with them and be their God. He will wipe every tear from their eyes. There will be no more death, or mourning or crying or pain, for the old order of things has passed away.’

We are reminded that God cares passionately about justice, and about alleviating suffering. May we continue His work on earth, and may we not settle for second best.

Eternal God, we thank You for that vision of the new heaven and the new earth, where there is no more suffering and pain, for You are with your people, and Your love transforms all. Lord Jesus, we want to do your will, but sometimes we get weary, help us rest and then find renewal. Sometimes it has all seemed overwhelming, and we have grown complacent and apathetic, may Your holy Spirit stir us up, and remind us what is important. May we yearn for Your kingdom, a place of healing and light and justice, where all are offered mercy, and may we use our gifts and skills to make a difference where we can.