The trial of three police officers accused in the fatal beating of Malice Green was one of Detroit’s most potentially volatile cases. So when Judge George Crockett III was assigned to the trial, lawyers praised the choice. “He’s fair—very fair— and he’s just,” said one. “He cares about people—victims and defendants,” said another.

Justice, fairness, equity—we expect it from a judge. But God, the Judge of the universe, requires it of us and wants us to call for justice in behalf of the oppressed. Israel’s failure to do this accounted in part for the nation’s downfall (Is. 59:9-15).

Today in many countries, more people are living in cities than ever before. And deep within these densely populated areas exist conditions that breed anger, hopelessness, and despair. Landlords charge high rent for rundown apartments. Double standards of justice prevail for different races and nationalities. Unfair hiring and housing practices are common. And many other inequities lead to new injustices.

As Christians, we must be the first to call for justice in every area of society, not primarily for ourselves but for others. And we must be the first to rid prejudice and unfair attitudes from the inner citadel of our hearts.

  — Dennis J. De Haan