Friday 27 June 2008

Background

The book of Micah could be described as a 'courtroom drama'. Godmoves around, taking on the various roles of the courtroom,appearing as both judge and defence. In this passage it is Micahwho is appearing before God and acting as mediator between God andthe people of Israel. Micah offers his view of just how bad thingshad become - the officials and kings were corrupt and the priestshad allowed people to worship false gods. But God knows the peoplewill return to God. They just need reminding of their failings andwhat the consequences will be.

Micah consistently returns to the fact that those in power areabusing it. The people are being wrongly led and so there is a needfor those in positions of responsibility to change theirways.

It may have been an easier job to try and turn the ordinary peopleaway from their wrongdoings, but to have to convince those inauthority would have been a different matter. Accusations againstthem could land Micah in very hot water. But the prophet's wordsspeak to the whole of society, for corruption is rife, and no oneis above Micah's harsh words.

Micah's desperation closes with an assurance of hope. He knows thatGod will hear him, and so he waits.

To Ponder

What are the ways that we can speak out againstthose in power in our world today who are no better than the rulersof Micah's time?

How effective are we as the people of God incontinuing to speak out against social injustice?