During Advent this year, I am reflecting daily using this Advent Photo Devotional. The words designated for December 22nd was #Justice, and for today, December 23rd is #Truth.
It’s really easy to look around and see the things in the world that are hurting and broken. Sometimes I seem to fixate on them. Politicians and those running for office always seem to focus on them, and use them to perpetuate fear, scarcity, and increase anxiety. Collectively we lose sight of the good in the world.
I was inspired to read this post from Angus Hervey yesterday which lists “11 Reasons Why 2015 Was a Great Year for Humanity.” A few of the reasons include:
- We got a lot closer to global, universal education
- Extreme poverty dropped below 10%- the lowest rate ever
- More people got connected to the internet than ever before
- AIDS deaths came down for the 15th year in a row
- Fewer people went hungry this year than ever before
- We reached a tipping point in fight against climate change
- See the link for the whole list and their explanations.
As we approach Christmas Eve tomorrow we do so knowing this world is good, for all the reasons listed above and plenty more, but also broken. People war with each other. There are great injustices even in our own communities and country. From Minneapolis to Texas, from the Pacific to the Atlantic, we have seen them this year. We ask, “how much longer, oh God?”
God’s justice and truth broke into the world anew in the form of a baby about 2000 years ago.
God’s justice and truth breaks in, in a new today through the presence of the Holy Spirit, through the reading of the Word, the waters of baptism, and the simple meal of bread and wine. We see signs of this justice and truth when people join with their neighbor in need because that’s exactly what God in Christ tells us to do.
Truth and justice in God’s eyes seem to be grounded in love. A love the Triune God has for us, and that we feel for God, and all of God’s people and creation.
On this day before Christmas Eve, I pray: Come soon Lord Jesus. Guide us to love and help us to be bearers of your truth, justice, and grace this Christmas. Amen.
How do you see God’s justice and truth in the world?
Timothy Siburg 
I think this is my favorite post from this month Timothy. Thank you for your reminder that “God breaks through” in the midst of worry, anxiety and fear. This year the news has brought us so much tragedy and I “feel” so much for the people involved. I’ll remember what you’ve said, that God breaks through in many ways, and that chases away the worry and anxiety. Thanks again!