In the book of Micah, we find a profound truth: "He hath shewed thee, O man, what is good; and what doth the Lord require of thee, but to do justly, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with thy God?" (Micah 6:8). This call to justice, kindness, and humility is not just an ancient proposition; it is a living mandate for us today.
Jesus echoes these themes in His parable of the ten virgins found in Matthew 25:1–13. The wise virgins prepared themselves with oil for their lamps, ensuring they were ready for the bridegroom's arrival. This preparation symbolizes the importance of being vigilant and taking action in our spiritual lives. Just as the wise virgins filled their lamps with oil, we are called to fill our lives with acts of justice and kindness, embodying the very essence of Christ's teachings.
To "do justly" means we must actively seek fairness and righteousness in our interactions with others. It calls us to stand against injustice and to advocate for those who cannot advocate for themselves. In a world that often turns a blind eye to suffering, we are to be the light that pierces through the darkness, demonstrating God’s love through our actions.
To "love mercy" invites us to cultivate a heart that shows compassion and grace, not just to those who deserve it, but to everyone. It is easy to love those who love us in return, but the challenge lies in extending kindness to those who are different from us, those who may even oppose us. By loving mercy, we prepare our hearts to be instruments of peace and reconciliation, much like the wise virgins who prepared themselves for the coming of the bridegroom.
Finally, to "walk humbly" with our God is a reminder of our dependence on Him and the humility we must carry as we navigate life. It is a posture of readiness and receptivity, like the wise virgins who remained alert and prepared. When we embrace humility, we acknowledge that it is not by our strength but by God's grace that we are equipped to do justice and love kindness.
As we reflect on Micah 6:8 and the parable of the ten virgins, let us ask ourselves:
1. In what areas of my life can I actively seek to do justice?
2. How can I express kindness and mercy to those around me today?
3. Am I living in a way that reflects humility before God and others?
4. Are my spiritual preparations sufficient for the coming of Christ?
May we be wise, not just in our understanding but in our actions, lighting the way for others as we walk humbly with our God, filled with justice and kindness.
