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This passage of scripture has a supersubscription titled: “Listen to what the Lord is saying.” As we participate in the “Faith and Housing” weekend, I was drawn to this scripture. Globally, right down to our immediate communities, I believe that we have stopped listening to the Lord and living according to our own set of rules. Instead, we should be listening to the Lord and remembering how he has instructed us to live.
By focusing on Housing Insecurity, we see that it is a subject rooted in the values that we share across boundaries of religion, race, ethnicity, gender and income levels. They are common values of shelter for all persons, respect for our neighbors, appreciation for having a home, a place to belong, by celebrating our diversity, fairness and our commitment to justice.
In a world where safe and stable housing is often seen as a privilege rather than a basic right, Micah 6:8 calls us back to God’s vision for society, one rooted in justice, mercy, and humility. This powerful verse is not a suggestion, but a divine requirement for living in right relationship with God and others. When we walk with God, he transforms our hearts.
“To Act Justly” means more than simply avoiding wrongdoing. It calls us to proactively address inequities, especially how we treat the vulnerable. In today’s context, this includes advocating for the homeless, supporting affordable housing initiatives, and standing with those who are displaced or exploited by unjust systems.
“To Love Mercy” challenges us to go beyond charity to compassion. Providing food or temporary shelter is important, but mercy urges us to see the humanity in each person, recognizing that everyone deserves a home, dignity, and safety. Mercy does not stop at relief; it presses on toward restoration of God’s children.
“To Walk Humbly with your God” reminds us that this work is not about moral superiority or social credit, it’s about aligning our hearts with God’s. We walk humbly by listening to those affected by housing injustice, learning from them, and allowing God’s Spirit to lead our actions. As disciples of Christ, we are called to live out the justice of God in tangible ways. Supporting just housing policies, building inclusive communities, and extending mercy to the unhoused are not just social acts, they are spiritual acts of obedience.
Be on the look out for housing injustice in your community. Then act justly by responding to the cause, and seek to walk humbly not by yourself but with your God, the one who has been your Protection, Provider and Peace. Lord make us instruments of your justice. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Pastor Andrea (Rev. Andie)
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