Many seek the favor of a ruler, but it is from the Lord that one gets justice. (Proverbs 29:26)

Many of us struggle with the command to forgive our enemies. We know that not to forgive invites bitterness and acts of vengeance, yet we cannot help feeling hurt and angry when we suffer injustice.

Early in my faith journey, I came across a passage in Proverbs that says it is okay to seek justice. Instantly I am reminded of Jesus’ parable about the widow who hounded the unjust judge until she got justice. Luke says the lesson is about perseverance in prayer, but I saw Jesus’ assurance that God would “...grant justice to the chosen ones who cry to God day and night.” Our God is a God of justice as well as mercy.

When I began to pray for justice, I found that God would often bring to mind my own shortcomings, as if to say, “Do you want justice, or forgiveness? Are you sure you want justice? You know that you are just as guilty.” It then became easier to turn a prayer for justice into a plea for God’s mercy and forgiveness. Slowly, my prayers for justice have become prayers for the oppressed. I have learned the hard lesson of forgiving because Jesus first allowed me to acknowledge my hurt and anger and seek justice. It is through this process that we are brought to the place of seeking forgiveness.

Holy Creator of mercy and justice, thank You for allowing us to approach You in our quest for justice and there find Your willingness to forgive us our trespasses.