Navigating Injustice: Finding Hope in a Broken World

In a world where injustice seems to run rampant, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and question where God is in the midst of it all. The book of Ecclesiastes, particularly chapter 5, verses 8 and 9, tackles this very issue head-on:

"If you see the poor oppressed in a district, and justice and rights denied, do not be surprised at such things. For one official is eyed by a higher one, and over them both are others higher still. The increase from the land is taken by all. The king himself profits from the fields."

These words, penned by the wise teacher known as Koheleth (believed to be Solomon), paint a stark picture of corruption and oppression. It's a reality that can shake our faith to its core, leading us to ask, "Where is God in all of this?"
The truth is, power structures – whether in government, business, or even religious institutions – can become breeding grounds for corruption. As the saying goes, "Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely." This sentiment is beautifully illustrated in J.R.R. Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings," where the Ring of Power corrupts all who possess it. It's a poignant reminder that no one is immune to the allure and corrupting influence of power.

So how do we reconcile the existence of injustice with our belief in a good and all-powerful God? Some philosophers argue that we must choose between God being all-powerful or all-good, as they claim He can't be both in a world where evil exists. However, the scriptures reject this as a false choice. The problem isn't with God's power or goodness – it's with our human character.

We live in a broken world, marred by sin that affects not just individuals, but entire societies. It's easy to focus on personal sins, but we must also recognize societal sins – practices or beliefs accepted by society that go against God's will. This calls us to examine whether we, as a society, are truly doing justice.

In Psalm 73, the author wrestles with similar questions, lamenting how the wicked seem to prosper while the righteous suffer. It's a sentiment many of us can relate to, especially when facing personal hardships while witnessing others who seem to live carefree lives despite their questionable choices.

However, we're cautioned against allowing the presence of injustice to blind us to the presence of God. Doing so risks falling into despair. Instead, we're called to trust that God is greater than the injustice we see, finding hope even in a broken world.

So how should we respond to the reality of injustice?

1. Acknowledge that we live in a broken world: While it's tempting to romanticize the past, thinking things were better "back then," the truth is that injustice has always existed. Our heightened awareness due to constant media exposure doesn't mean the world is necessarily worse – we're just more aware of its brokenness.
2. Recognize that sin affects every aspect of society: Our actions have ripple effects beyond just ourselves. Even seemingly private sins contribute to larger societal issues.
3. Seek justice while trusting in God's ultimate justice: We're called to "act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with our God" (Micah 6:8). Isaiah 1:17 urges us to "seek justice, correct oppression, bring justice to the fatherless, and plead the widow's cause." We must be a voice for the voiceless, even as we trust that God will ultimately make all things right.
4. Continue to worship God, even when we don't understand: Oppression can hinder true worship, but entering God's presence reminds us of His eternal justice. As Psalm 73:17 says, "Until I went into the sanctuary of God; then I understood their end."
5. Remember that God sees and knows: Even when we feel God is absent, He sees our struggles and hears our cries. He will act, though perhaps not in the way or timing we expect.

Living with faith and courage in a broken world requires us to grapple with difficult questions:

• How do we process injustice when we experience or witness it?
• How can we balance seeking justice with trusting in God's ultimate timing?
• What does it mean to worship God when we don't understand His plan?
• How can we be a voice for justice without losing sight of the gospel?

These aren't easy questions with simple answers. They require deep reflection and a willingness to wrestle with God, much like the authors of Ecclesiastes and Psalms did.
When we feel overwhelmed by the injustice around us, we can take comfort in knowing that God sees us. One of the most beautiful names of God in scripture is "El Roi" – the God who sees me. This name, given by Hagar in her distress, reminds us that even in our darkest moments, we are not invisible to God.

As we navigate this broken world, let us hold fast to God, even in the face of oppression. We can trust that one day, His justice will make all things right. Until then, we're called to be His hands and feet, seeking justice and being a voice for the voiceless, all while keeping our eyes fixed on the hope of the gospel.

In doing so, we don't ignore the reality of injustice, but we also don't let it define our worldview. Instead, we live as people of hope, trusting in a God who is bigger than the brokenness we see around us. We continue to worship, to seek justice, and to love our neighbors, knowing that in the end, God's righteousness will prevail.

May we have the courage to keep trusting God, seeking His justice and righteousness in the midst of a broken world. For in doing so, we become beacons of hope, pointing others to the ultimate source of justice and love – our Creator and Redeemer.