Standing in the Gap
As followers of Christ, we are called not just to observe injustice, but to stand in the gap—to show up, speak up, and embody the love and justice of God in a hurting world. Here are ten ways we invite you to deepen your commitment to social justice as a Christian practice:
1. Stay in Love with God
Our power to act flows from our relationship with God. Staying in love with God means practicing the means of grace—worship, prayer, communion, scripture, and Christian conferencing. Join us for worship each Sunday and explore opportunities through Adult Spiritual Growth (ASG). On Saturday, April 19, we held a Vigil for Justice and Compassion, and we will gather again for a Service of Lament and Hope on Wednesday, May 14, at 7 p.m. These sacred moments help root our justice work in God’s presence.
2. Care for Yourself
You cannot help others if you’re running on empty. Engaging in justice work can be emotionally taxing. Build in rhythms of rest, joy, sabbath, and support. Your well-being matters, and it’s essential for the long haul.
3. Keep Learning
Read widely, listen deeply, and engage with perspectives different from your own. Continuous education protects us from the traps of self-righteousness and spiritual stagnation. It also helps us avoid living in a bubble that shields us from the full reality others are facing.
4. Reflect on Our Role
Justice begins with humility. We must ask how we may have unknowingly contributed to unjust systems—and then take steps toward change. This kind of soul work is necessary before transformation can take root.
5. Join Peaceful Protest
When policies hurt the marginalized, we are called to resist—not with violence, but with truth, presence, and prayer. Rather than reinventing the wheel, we encourage referring to organizations that organize peaceful protests, letter-writing campaigns, and justice advocacy efforts. A quick search on the internet will help you find an organization that aligns with your values.
6. Double Down on Outreach
Jesus met people where they were. At SUM, we continue that legacy through our Justice & Joy ministries—each focused on the needs of the poor, the displaced, the forgotten, and the hurting. We are grateful for the passion and leadership of so many in this area.
7. Build and Sustain Relationships
Justice is not a solo endeavor. Relationships—across lines of difference and within our church—strengthen our capacity to act with love, not just conviction.
8. Bear Witness
Your story matters. Sharing how you’ve been moved to act—or why you care—inspires others to find their own entry points into justice work.
9. Lament and Hope
Turning to scripture gives us space for both. Lament acknowledges suffering and injustice. Hope declares that God is not finished yet. Justice-seeking requires both: the honesty to grieve what is broken and the faith to believe change is possible.
10. Practice Joy
Joy is an act of resistance. It reminds us—and the powers that be—that oppression doesn’t get the last word. Joy sustains our movements, strengthens our spirits, and creates space for new life to break in.
We can stand in the gap together—faithful, hopeful, and loving.
Reflect on these ten steps and see where the Spirit leads you to become involved. Whether deepening your spiritual practices, joining a Justice & Joy ministry, or showing up in community spaces where love and courage are needed, there is a place for you in this work.
PG & DD