I heard today of a friend living in another country who is under investigation by an agency of his government. I grieve for him. The government is accusing him of some sort of financial impropriety. I don’t pretend to understand the issues at stake or the laws he was supposed to have compromised. I do know him as a man of amazing integrity, generosity, and wisdom. Perhaps he made poor choices. Perhaps he is just being made an example. Whether this is just or unjust matter, I cannot say. I do know I’m praying for my friend, for wisdom, mercy, truth and yes, justice. May the God of justice and mercy bring both for my friend, and for all those struggling both fairly and unfairly because of legal issues. Join me…

“God, you are just and you are merciful. You have given authority governments to establish and maintain justice in the affairs human relationships. Your justice is perfect; our interpretation and application of it is not. We respect and submit to the decisions of our government, but we also can appeal for consideration and reconsideration. We can press and argue our case. When we do, we ask for truth to prevail, for sympathy and wisdom and discernment and impartiality on the part of those serving judgment. We do not ask for an avoidance of justice, but for truth, and in the end for mercy to balance truth. We are all in need of mercy. For those struggling with legal issues, bring them peace and confidence. Let justice prevail in their case. And after justice, let mercy and pardon – in the right form and balance – shield them. If they need to pay the cost of a bad choice, give them the grace for this. If their charge can be dropped, and limited, then somehow let that mercy prevail. Teach them how to grow through this trial. Show them more of you and your ways. God, enter this case as judge, jury, and defense attorney. We trust you now and always. In Jesus…”