If you take pains to work for the good of others, you'll know the pain of setbacks and uphill challenges. To love justice and mercy yourself is to face the rulers, authorities, cosmic powers and spiritual forces of evil that do not (Ephesians 6:12). Why does scripture remind us to not grow weary in doing good (Galatians 6:9)? Because it doesn't always feel like good is overcoming evil (Romans 12:21). Joy comes with the morning (Psalm 30:5), but by midday we've already had our fill of strife again. And that's not even taking into account our personal struggles and circumstances.
Moses knew these feelings well. He heard and listened to the God that appeared to him in the burning bush. He heeded the call. He walked with his brother, Aaron, and told Pharaoh God's command: Let my people go (Exodus 5:1). Pharaoh responded by adding burden to the work of the Hebrew people. Of course, in that moment, they didn't appreciate what Moses did. And Moses didn't appreciate what he felt God did. He accused God of mistreating the people and he questioned why the Lord would even send him on this mission.
So, if you've ever needed to question God in that way, you're in good company. But the cry of Moses was not his giving up God's calling but holding up God's promise. They'll be other times Moses questions God. Such obstinance might challenge our notions of piety and reverence. But what if it's a sign of intimacy with God?
To work for the good and freedom of others is to recognize that the pharaohs of today will always want more bricks. Part of our love of neighbor is trusting God's promise of abundant life in this world and the next. When we see that abundance challenged or mangled away by others, we keep working. We also remind God the promises given to us. So, let your intimacy with God embolden your work of justice and mercy.
Stay blessed...john | 
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