Washington DC is said to be in a struggle between being a beautiful city and being a just city. As you read scripture, it’s hard to deny that all people are called to work for justice, no matter what trade they practice. How does the Christian faith equip us to pursue a beautifully just city—a city that flourishes for all people?

There appeared to be no justice in Job’s suffering—he didn’t “get what he deserved.” Instead, his suffering came after a lifetime of generosity that affirmed the essential humanity of not just his friends, but his subordinates, as well. In fact, looking at the way Job treated those of lower social classes and professional standings gives us cause to assess the way our own hearts treat money and power. Once we do, the cross gives us the strength to be honest about what we find.

We will be taking a break from Sermon Discussion for the remainder of the summer. While there will be a generic study guide posted each week, we encourage you to use this opportunity to rest as
a group. What that rest looks like is up to you—feel free to do social events, find service projects around your neighborhood or even take the entire month off.

Bob Lupton, author of Compassion, Justice and the Christian Life: Rethinking Ministry to the Poor.
Listen:Plenary 1, Plenary 2, Q&A