GOSPEL MESSAGE & RECORDING
The word JUST can be used in the English language as an adverb, that is, to describe a verb. For example, I just finished my homework. Or it can be used as an adjective, that is, to describe a noun. In the Gospel reading, Joseph is described a being a just man in his dealings with Mary. He was willing to put her away secretly, rather than shaming her in public for being with a child that was not his. At that time for a man to make such a bold consideration meant that he had a sense of justice and compassion above and beyond what the Jewish law prescribed for such a woman in that predicament. Of course, Joseph is visited by the angel Gabriel and told exactly why and how Mary is pregnant. The point here is that Joseph is described as being a just man. What does the word mean? And how is it applicable to our Christian life at present?
The Bible teaches us that there is one person who is just and that is Christ. “God presented Him as the atoning sacrifice through faith in His blood, in order to demonstrate His righteousness, because in His forbearance He had passed over the sins committed beforehand. He did this to demonstrate His righteousness at the present time, so as to be just and to justify the one who has faith in Jesus.” (Romans 3:26) God being just, gave us his Son, so that we could be justified through faith in Him.
For us Christians, the one who is truly just is Christ. He is the just judge, messiah, lord and king. We are able to be just, because He is just by nature, and justified the unjust, so that before God we may be presented as just. Now, in Christ, we have the ability to be just men and women of God.
To be just means that we are fair-minded, impartial and equitable. As Christians, we have a central responsibility to be just.
In Marriage - Often marriage can become lop-sided. For example, one spouse may take on responsibilities over and beyond that of the other spouse. Often this can become hurtful to the marriage, because one spouse can become overwhelmed or overburdened, leading to resentment or discord. It is recommended, in whatever way possible, to be fair and balanced with the responsibilities of marriage and children. Both spouses should feel they are pulling the same amount of weight. That is, complementing each other. However, this might not be possible for a spouse who has disabilities or illnesses.
At Work - Recently, I was sick and took off from work for two days. The third day was a toss. I could take off or go to work. I thought it wouldn’t be fair to my students if I were out for three days. It was not necessarily a right or wrong situation. Most situations that call us to be fair are not so black and white but leave us in a gray area to make the best decision. At work, we should be fair in our deals with our co-workers and boss.
With Money -When lending money we should never charge interest. That is something the Bible teaches against because it is an unfair practice. I speak in regards to the individual. Regarding a bank institution: that is a matter that needs to be further explored.
When tipping for services rendered, we should be fair in our giving. Shortchanging someone who deserves a better tip is not pleasing to God. The idea of a fair wage is a matter of great discussion, but generally speaking, a worker should be paid for the time and value they render to their company or corporation. I am not advocating workers rights or corporation rights; but rather, advocating for what is fair for both.
At Parish - Being fair and equitable within our parish is hard to describe or explain. But let me try! Being fair within the parish is more aligned with our attitude toward other people. That is, understanding others and treating them fairly based on their walk with the Lord. Remember, we are in the “business” of bringing people closer to the Lord; keeping that in mind, so that we approach every situation with love and compassion.
We should also evaluate our contribution to the parish in terms of money, time and talent. Are we fair in how we give our money, time and talents to St. Luke’s? Is it fair to let others do most of the work? Is it fair that in most parishes (Malankara Orthodox) 20% of the parishioners do 90% of the work? I don’t think it is fair! The weight should be spread evenly among all parishioners as best as possible.