The Reflection of Your Father

Learn to do good; Seek justice, Rebuke the oppressor; Defend the fatherless, Plead for the widow.

Isaiah 1:17 (NKJV)

In his epistle, James teaches us that faith without works is dead. Rather than interpreting this statement within its true context—namely, that our faith in God and our worship of His person should prompt us to follow His example by doing good around us, aiding the oppressed, and fulfilling all that He took care to mention throughout the Old Testament—some prefer to give it a different interpretation, asking themselves: "If we are saved by faith and not by works, why are works important in the journey of faith?"

The most important aspect of the order God has established—an aspect we often overlook—is that He created us to represent Him and to carry out His will. We bear His image; consequently, He does not need to physically descend Himself to execute His will. He is a God of justice; therefore, it falls to you to reflect His justice by protecting the oppressed and defending those rejected by society. He is a God of compassion; therefore, it falls to you to demonstrate compassion by supporting others to the best of your ability. The warmth of the daylight you feel is a reflection of the sun—the celestial body that generates it.

Thus, as a Christian bearing the image of God and reflecting His glory, you bear the responsibility of manifesting His nature, His character, and His compassion to humanity. God places great importance on justice; this means He pays particular attention to those suffering injustice—and more specifically, to three distinct categories of victims: the oppressed, orphans, and widows. This is an undeniable reality. Therefore, through faith, hasten to do good for the glory of God. For it is this that will enable others to see Him through you, and to know that He is a compassionate God who cares for them, even in the midst of their suffering. Be a reflection of your Heavenly Father.

May the grace and peace of God be with you.