3. Social Justice: Food for All
Bible Commentary:
Isaiah 58:6-7 offers a powerful call to care for those in need: “Is not this the kind of fasting I have chosen: to loose the chains of injustice and untie the cords of the yoke, to set the oppressed free and break every yoke? Is it not to share your food with the hungry and to provide the poor wanderer with shelter?” Jesus reinforces this message in Matthew 25:35, where he equates feeding the hungry with serving Him: “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat.” These passages challenge us to view food as a means of justice and to consider how we can address hunger and inequality in our communities.
Discussion Questions:
- How can your community take action to address food poverty and hunger locally?
- In what ways does Isaiah 58:6-7 inspire us to share not just food, but dignity and justice with those in need?
- How do we see the concept of food justice playing out in Jesus’ teachings, particularly in Matthew 25?
Event Suggestions:
A Community Meal for Social Justice is an excellent way to engage with this theme. Partner with a local charity or food bank to organise a meal where everyone—regardless of their circumstances—shares in the food and fellowship. Begin the event with a reading of Isaiah 58:6-7 and Matthew 25:35. After the meal, lead a discussion or small group study on the biblical imperative to feed the hungry and advocate for food justice. Invite participants to reflect on how they can help alleviate food insecurity, both individually and as a church.
Activity Ideas:
- Organise a Food Collection in conjunction with the event to collect non-perishable items for local food banks.
- Provide resources on how to get involved with local initiatives addressing food poverty.