Faith in Action: How Justice and “Good Trouble” Go Hand in Hand
In the past few days, something powerful has been happening across the United States. Thousands of people gathered in parks, on sidewalks, and at churches to speak out for justice. They were part of a national movement called “Good Trouble Lives On,” inspired by civil rights hero John Lewis. Their message was loud and clear: we must stand up against unfair treatment and speak out for the vulnerable.
For people of faith, this moment invites us to ask a simple but deep question: What does God expect of us right now?
The Bible gives us strong guidance in times like these. In Micah 6:8, we read:
“What does the Lord require of you? To act justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.”
And in Luke 4:18, Jesus says he came to bring good news to the poor, to free the oppressed, and to lift up those who are hurting.
That’s not just about personal faith—it’s about how we treat others, especially those who are suffering.
Right now in the U.S., several things are causing pain and stress in our communities:
Mass Layoffs: More than 275,000 government workers have lost their jobs in healthcare, education, and environmental safety.
Cutbacks on Civil Rights: Programs that support diversity, equity, and inclusion (called DEI) are being removed from schools and businesses.
Protests and Boycotts: In response, people are marching, praying, and even choosing not to shop at big stores like Amazon, Walmart, and Target. They want their money to go to businesses that care about justice.
This is not just politics—it’s about morality and how we care for one another.
Activists hung a banner from an overpass in Walla Walla.
Many people think faith should stay out of social issues, but that’s not what the Bible teaches.
In fact, when we care for workers, speak out for justice, and protect those being pushed aside, we are doing holy work.
Jesus didn’t avoid conflict—he challenged systems that were unfair. He flipped tables in the temple when people were being exploited. He called out leaders who were greedy or corrupt. And he spent his time with the poor, the sick, and the outcast.
We are called to do the same.
What Can We Do?
Here are some simple ways to put our faith into action:
Action: Support small and Black-owned businesses
Why It Matters: Helps build up communities often left behind
Action: Join peaceful protests or community rallies
Why It Matters: Shows unity and brings attention to important issues
Action: Pray and speak up in your church or group
Why It Matters: Keeps the focus on justice in your spiritual family
Actions: Call your leaders or vote
Why It Matters: Pushes for laws that protect workers and the poor
James 2:17 says, “Faith without action is dead.” That means our belief in God should move us to act. It’s not enough to say we care—we need to live it out.
When we stand up for workers, immigrants, and people facing unfair treatment, we are following the path Jesus walked.
Now is the time to rise together—not in hate, but in love. Let’s cause “Good Trouble” for a good reason. Let’s make our faith real in the streets, at the ballot box, and in our daily lives. Justice isn’t just a dream—it’s our calling.
