Defend

I was recently listening to a worship song and the phrase, “my Shepherd will defend me,” jumped out at me, leading to reflections about Jesus defending me. What a powerful concept. Even better, what a significant reality. In his relationship with me, Jesus will defend me despite mistakes. He will defend me when I am under attack. He will defend me in the midst of unjust circumstances.

“My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father. He is Jesus Christ, the one who is truly righteous.” 1 John 2:1 (NLT)

“Be gracious to me, God, be gracious to me, for I take refuge in you. I will seek refuge in the shadow of your wings until danger passes. I call to God Most High to God who fulfills his purpose for me.” Psalm 57:1-3a (CSB)

“What sorrow awaits those who look to Egypt for help, trusting their horses, chariots, and charioteers and depending on the strength of human armies instead of looking to the Lord, the Holy One of Israel. In his wisdom, the Lord will send great disaster; he will not change his mind. He will rise against the wicked and against their helpers.” Isaiah 31:1-2 (NLT)

“For he will deliver the needy who cry out, the afflicted who have no one to help. He will take pity on the weak and the needy and save the needy from death. He will rescue them from oppression and violence, for precious is their blood in his sight.” Psalm 72:12-14 (NIV)

As often happens because of my work, these thoughts lead to further reflection about the relevance and implications beyond myself and into the context of those who have been forcibly displaced in some way.

Many have not made any significant mistakes that led to their displacement, but even if they did, Jesus can and will defend his children. He is the best advocate.

Of even more significance is the thought of attack. There may have been attacks that led to displacement, or there may have been attacks while on the journey of seeking a safe place. There may even be current attacks in a place they thought might be a more permanent, peaceful place of resettlement. They can still seek his refuge, because he is eager to protect and defend them.

The same can be said for unjust circumstances. It’s probably safe to say that all forcibly displaced people have experienced unjust circumstances. And for sure, all of them can turn to God as their ultimate defender. He will hear and rescue them when they call to him.

To end this train of thought… How might I show a similar willingness to defend a friend or acquaintance who might benefit? I feel that I should at least consider such opportunities. Here are some ideas:

• Be slow to judge people and their situations, but eager to listen.

• Remember that we all have made mistakes.

• For someone (or even a broader group of people) unjustly under attack or in some other bad situation, be brave and bold enough to speak up or step into the fray and do something helpful.

• Be present. Don’t disappear from the place of adversity. Even without easy answers, a caring presence can mean a lot.

I’m thankful that my Shepherd defends me and also cares deeply about the defense of others who have been forced into difficult circumstances. And I’m thankful I have opportunities to defend friends from time to time.