Seeking justice is at the very core of our work. It’s the mission Christ gave to his Church when he taught his disciples to pray for God’s kingdom to come on earth, and it’s the reason why we advocate for freedom of religion or belief for all. This week let’s pray with renewed hope for a just world – one where everyone is free to choose and practise their faith freely and in safety – on earth as it is in heaven.
Sunday 18 July
‘Speak the truth to each other and render true and sound judgment in your courts.’ (Zechariah 8:16) Pray that all those who are unfairly facing trial because of their beliefs would be met with just judges who seek the truth above all else.
Monday 19 July
‘At once all the prison doors flew open, and everyone’s chains came loose.’ (Acts 16:26b) Today, ask God to free all those currently imprisoned or detained on account of their beliefs.
Tuesday 20 July
‘Defend the rights of the poor and needy.’ (Proverbs 31:9b) Remember all those impoverished – those prevented from having access to water, electricity and other essential services, or barred from applying for certain jobs – because they belong to a minority faith group.
Wednesday 21 July
‘So God created mankind in his own image.’ (Genesis 1:27a) Pray today for all children around the world who are denied fair access to education on account of their faith; that their communities and governments would recognise that they are of equal value and grant them the rights they deserve.
Thursday 22 July
‘We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned...’ (2 Corinthians 4:8-9) Pray for strength and renewed hope for all those who are waiting for justice; those forced to flee their homes or who have had their property destroyed; those who suffer daily harassment because of their faith.
Friday 23 July
‘Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.’ (Matthew 5:10) Today pray for the human rights defenders, activists, journalists and NGO workers who devote their lives to seeking justice, often risking their own safety to defend the rights of others.
Saturday 24 July
Loving heavenly Father, we lift up to you all those facing injustice because of their faith around the world. May they be comforted, strengthened, filled with hope, and trust that in time justice will ‘roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!’ (Amos 5:24) Amen.