Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly

We are singing a new song at the 10:30am service called “Act Justly, Love Mercy, Walk Humbly,” based on Micah 6:8, which says “He has told you, O man, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?”

The word “require” may seem a bit intimidating. But as I meditate on these words I not only see what I am required to do, but I am reminded of what I am not required to do, especially my self-inflicted “requirements.” The requirements I place on myself on often highly pressured and self-serving. These thoughts go something like this: I must achieve this goal or award or receive a certain type of affirmation. I must see results and feel success in everything I do.  

I think we all put requirements on ourselves beyond what God asks us to do or be. We can probably come up with our own lists, but here are a few reminders on the not required list: I am not required to have nice things and drive a nice car. I am not required to impress everyone I meet. I am not required to be perfect at my job. I am not required to be a perfect spouse, parent, or child. 

Through the help of Christ I am called to act justly in the world around me. I am called to love mercy, both receiving it and giving it. I am called to walk humbly with God, to admit that I am not God and that God’s will and ways are always best. That may seem like a lot, but all of those ways are full of truth, grace and abundant life. My self-imposed requirements lead to weariness and fear. 

During this year of mission, let us set aside our own requirements and simply “act justly, love mercy, walk humbly.” 

Jill Schroeder-Dorn, D.A., Director of Worship Arts