JANUARY 8, 2008

Dear Friends,

 We who seek justice will have to do justice to others. 
~ Mahatma Gandhi, barefoot in his journey

I am thinking of a story where justice and compassion collide. It concerns two prostitutes and Solomon, a king who asked God for the gift of wisdom rather than that of gold, silver or power.

Not long after the beginning of his reign, Solomon was confronted by these two women who shared a dwelling. Within three days of one another each had given birth to a son. One child soon died.  During the night,  said one,  this woman’s son died because she lay on him and she took my son and laid her dead infant at my side .  Not so,  said the other.  Her child died and she is trying to claim mine as her own. The women stood before the king arguing, demanding, accusing. What should the wise king do!?

 Bring me a sword,  said Solomon, who then ordered:  Cut the living child in two and give half to one and half to the other. 

 Please, my lord, give her the living child!  cried one. The text adds . . . because the woman whose son was alive was filled with compassion. The other cried out,  Neither I nor you shall have him. Cut him in two! 

Not surprisingly, the king dealt justly,  Give the first woman the living boy; do not kill him.  (1 Kings 3:16-28)

I think of this story and my mind shifts to the collision of justice and compassion required of REACH. Solomon’s method, if nothing else, was certainly perilous. What is undeniable was his tenacious demand that justice be extended.

The king’s story teaches REACH to pray for the wisdom to deal justly with those we serve, the community and families affected by HIV/AIDS; then, to pray that we react compassionately when indifference or rejection confronts us. Thank you for standing with us in this most important collision: justice and compassion.

Your Servant,

Susan K. Slonaker

It is so important for you to keep giving and praying for REACH Ministries. Please, don't forget to send in a contribution to undergird the work God is doing and will be doing through us this year. Ask at your workplace about matching funds, and please designate REACH Ministries when you contribute through The United Way. Thank you.