Let justice roll

If I remember correctly, this verse was highlighted in a famous speech by Martin Luther King Jr. The words are stirring and evocative. What comes to my mind here is a mighty river like the Mississippi. Have you ever seen it at its widest? Or when it is at flood stage? It is an awesome sight.

The older I get, the more aware I become of the many injustices in this world. When growing up, I remember being told, “Life’s not fair — get used to it!” And to a great extent, that is true. On the other hand, I also understand how fortunate I am most days that I do not get what I deserve.

Black and brown people, immigrants, the poor and homeless, the mentally ill. The oppressors, the fear mongers, the deceivers, the power hungry, the selfish. There is such a divide and it seems to grow wider and deeper every day. Yet to some degree this is nothing new; it is as old as time. Maybe we are just starting to more easily see it.

I think back to the many racist remarks, sayings, and attitudes laced throughout my upbringing. How deep the prejudices really are. In some instances of my memory, I am appalled.

Another Bible verse comes to mind — 1 Peter 2:23 — which mentions “him who judges righteously.” I look toward a coming day when all things will be set right.