Psalm 99

“Mighty King, lover of justice, you have established equity; you have executed justice and righteousness in Jacob.” vs. 3

In recent months the notion of DEI, diversity, equity, and inclusivity, has become a synonym for whatever is wrong with our country. The government has completely shut down any of its DEI programs, and companies are being urged by their stockholders to shelve their DEi practices. Some might find it surprising then that the psalmist believed that it was the Lord who had established equity, and that it was a part of the divine plan for Israel. Equity is a term that is connected to justice and fairness, and should be distinguished from equality. Equity recognizes that people do not all start from the same place and that those differences should be accommodated by a caring community. While we can readily accept that this is how God deals with humanity, it’s difficult for us to treat the people around us in the same way. If we sense that someone is receiving special accommodation for a position or a job, we’re quick to claim that they’re getting an unfair advantage. But what a blessing it is to know that God doesn’t operate by our standards and instead offers healing and restoration to the broken. It would be even a greater blessing if we could learn to treat our hurting brothers and sisters with the same kind of compassion.

Thought for the Day: What’s the difference between equality and equity?