The Justice of the Lord's Prayer

Charity

In context, biblically social justice and charitable deeds can not be separated.

Jesus does not negate the charitable deeds, nonetheless our deeds of charity do not need to be showcased.

People that commercialize their deeds have a propaganda to push.

In effort to sway public opinion you will see the “Empire” attempt to show the “good deeds” to sway the hearts and minds of the people.

Jesus states “Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men”.

Historically as it pertains to social justice, this text speaks volumes to many of the efforts during the civil rights movement, Jim Crow and during Slavery.

Many allies, abolitionist and freedom fighters often had to keep deeds secret in order to preserve their life.

The Lord’s Prayer

Jesus levels the playing field - “Our Father”, God is the Father of all, we are all equal in the sight of God.

Jesus petitions that the “kingdom” of God come on earth as it is in heaven.

Comparing Kingdoms, the kingdoms of this earth are ridden with oppression, ridden with racism, ridden with the unequal distribution of resources these differences do not exist in heaven.

The social justice aspect is Jesus is asking for “daily bread”. Our daily needs () No one should be deprived of daily needs.

We can’t over spiritualize this, we will consider this to be spiritual bread nonetheless encourages us to feed those who are hungry.

Jesus speaks to justice, the forgiveness of our debts. Not to negate consequences but to all people the ability to seek the goodness of grace and mercy. Likewise we forgive those who “owe” us.

Deliverance is what we are working toward. Deliverance from violence, deliverance from systematic oppression and poverty. Deliverance from the lack of resources.

It is our duty to show this Power, “For yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory” This has to be shown.