'My argument against God was that the universe seemed so cruel and unjust. But how had I got this idea of just and unjust? A man does not call a line crooked unless he has some idea of a straight line. What was I comparing this universe with when I called it unjust?' - CS Lewis. [1]
The concept of justice seems at its face value a simple one and seeking to promote a just society is apparently a no-brainer. But when we dig deeper, it is more complex than it appears. Justice is defined as 'administration of law or equity; maintenance of what is just or right by the exercise of authority or power; assignment of deserved reward or punishment'. [2] But what is 'right' is subjective and depends on someone's belief system, conscience, or political stance. Governments or criminal justice systems can become corrupted.
The lines between what is good and evil quickly grow blurred. As good citizens, we are called to uphold the law. As Christians, we are additionally burdened with the knowledge of a world of spiritual warfare, and are tasked with going beyond simply being worldly citizens — rather, we are to live as citizens of heaven, honouring God with our hearts and hence lives. At times, it can seem a heavy load to bear.
So, how can we reconcile our duties to be both citizens of the world and of God's kingdom? How as Christians should we respond to social, and other types of, injustice? What wisdom does the Bible contain about how we are designed to live?
In this edition, CMF CEO Mark Pickering writes on the mysteries of his work in prison medicine, and the calling to help rebuild broken lives. Enpei Zhang describes how he and other students swapped an exotic elective for volunteering in ICU during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Marolin Watson contemplates whether the God we worship is a just one, and John Greenall explains how he has found that the ability to say 'no' sometimes means saying 'yes' to walking more closely with God.
Zack Millar reflects on the injustices he has witnessed as a junior doctor, and how we can find peace and joy amidst the pain and sadness we often see working in the medical field. All this and more, alongside our regular features including 'just ask', local group updates, and book reviews, make for a fantastic edition that delves into some difficult issues.
Ultimately, the concept of justice is a matter of the heart. As we draw to the close of what has been a challenging academic year, I pray that you will be blessed, and that your heart and mind will be guarded by 'the peace of God, which transcends all understanding.' (Philippians 4:7) Go well in Christ.
