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Made for Mondays: Work and the Glory of God Sermon: Work and Justice Isaiah 59:3,6-9a  Sermon Summary The Big Idea of this study is that justice issues are very important to the Lord. We can’t be in a right relationship with him without caring for those he cares about. Those of us who have been around for a while can remember when we put a great deal of trust in institutions and corporations. It was shocking to hear of an organization that betrayed the trust of its employees, or customers. Today it is commonplace to hear of outrageous things happening in corporations, the police force, and even the church. Imagine what this means for the generation of folks under 30 years of age. They have never lived in an era when they could completely trust their world.  I’m sure there are many reasons for the suspicion and lack of trust we are experiencing. In this week’s sermon I discuss some of those factors. But regardless of the reasons, we have a responsibility as followers of Jesus to reverse the trend. We are really talking about issues of justice and integrity. Distrust is a direct result of injustice. We all know what it is like to be treated unfairly and the impact is certainly a breach in the relationship. In our text the Lord is reminding Israel of the importance of looking after the disadvantaged. He says that a relationship with Him requires healthy and just relationships with others who are less fortunate than us. Our prayers are hindered when we don’t care about those he cares about.  Questions for Discussion: 1. Imagine growing up in a world where you don’t trust any institution. What would this do to your worldview? Do you see that in the youngest generation? 2. Do you think the Israelite exiles are shocked by God’s response to their prayer and fasting? Why or why not? 3. Notice how the Lord defines fasting, not as abstaining from food, but as caring for the needy. (See verse 6a) 4. What religious duties might Christians think puts them in good stead with God that in reality miss the point Isaiah is making? 5. Read again verses 8-9 and discuss the benefits promised those who care for those who are in need. 6. Discuss this statement “Followers of Jesus disadvantage themselves for the advantage of others.”