Justice, Help & Rescue

There have been times in my life where justice was served. People who know me, know that I have a bit of a struggle when it comes to driving within the speed limits set by law. I try to live on purpose and I am often pushing hard to get to my next appointment. I know that I should take it a bit easier and notice the beauty of the day. I’m still working on all of that. I remember times when I’ve received my “safe driving award” (aka speeding ticket) and I made the payment. There were other times that I clearly deserved the “award” but didn’t get it. I am thankful when the officer has grace, but I’ve learned that it’s justice when I receive it.

Help is a bit different. I remember being the recipient of help when I was broken down on the side of I-75 North of Knoxville, TN headed home from college for the weekend. My car was overheating. This was in the days before cell phones. A friend from college who “happened” to be going the same direction stopped to help. He had water in his car and helped me get to the next exit to get more help in order to get home. I was so thankful then and I still remember how it felt to get help when I didn’t know where it was coming from.

Rescue screams out desperation to me. I was once rescued from being thrown from a raft while rafting the Ocoee River in Tennessee. I remember the guide calling the rapid we were headed into a “taco” and it folded the boat like a taco and I was tossed out. I fought the waves and then remember my training and put my feet down stream. After going through 4 more rapids on my behind, I was exhausted. I see why people drown. Physical exhaustion was overwhelming. I was finally pulled back into the boat and I remember being wilted and tired from fighting the water.

These events happened pretty far back in my past (all except the “safe driving awards”) and I still remember the events pretty vividly. I think everyone needs help and rescue, but justice is not always welcome unless it’s from the Lord. His justice is dripping with grace and mercy. Jeremiah is speaking to the leadership of Judah; the kings and judges and he speaks on behalf of the Lord regarding impending capture of their country by Babylon. Check this out….

¹¹ “Say to the royal family of Judah, ‘Listen to this message from the Lord! ¹² This is what the Lord says to the dynasty of David: 

“‘Give justice each morning to the people you judge!
    Help those who have been robbed;
    rescue them from their oppressors.
Otherwise, my anger will burn like an unquenchable fire
    because of all your sins.(Jeremiah 21:11 NLT)

I believe leaders are called in all three areas. Leaders have a great responsibility with justice – fair and equitable treatment of the people under their authority. I also believe that leaders should be helpful to the people they are tasked with leading. There are times when a leader needs to rescue someone in their care. I feel like in the past I’ve needed all three at some point in my working life.

I need justice, help and rescue from the Lord on a daily basis. I need to seek His heart and His Word for direction and understanding of serving Him with my whole heart. His justice was transformed by His Son, Jesus. His justice includes forgiveness and removal of my disgusting sin. He helps me every day navigate sticky situations and gives me wisdom and discernment as I seek to serve and lead others. He also rescues me daily from my own struggles and suffering. His Presence in the midst of my everyday life makes a huge difference and I’m thankful for Him walking with me daily.

He is my Author, my Maker, my Ransom, my Savior, My Refuge, my Hiding place. He’s my Helper, my Healer, my Blessed Redeemer, my Answer my Saving Grace. He’s my hope in the shadows, My strength in the battle, My anchor for all my days.  He’s my Strength in the battle. He stands by my side. He stood in my place. Jesus, no other name. (Worthy of Your Name– by Brenton Brown, Sean Curran & Brett Younker)

I’m so grateful for justice, help and rescue from the Lord!

Pressing On!

Dwayne