Part 15. The Pursuit of Social Justice (1)

Many strive for social justice for themselves, for others, for communities. The community may be based on geography or interest. I am aware of four ways this striving may occur.

1. Direct support for those in need.

2. Demanding that the State should shoulder responsibility for direct support.

3. Demanding the State introduce measures which obviate the need for support.

4. Salf-help, either alone or in concert.

Seeking social justice for the poor, the oppressed, the downtrodden, the victims of circumstance, bigotry or indifference is never easy.

How to engage in the pursuit  of social justice? In my limited experience it boils down to resources and organisational ability. Any group lacking a sufficiency of these two elements is doomed to struggle and eventually fail. Sadly too many people enter the labyrinthine world of  voluntary organisations, engage with bureaucracy, get chewed up and spat out. 

Direct support for those in need

Individuals may give directly to a person money, or goods, or time or their skill. Or they may give said  assistance to an organisation providing direct support. 

In the Book of Acts we read of communities of believers being together and holding everything in common. Selling their possessions and goods, they gave to anyone who had need. Acts 2:44-45 and 4:32-35. In Acts 11:27-30 the disciples in Antioch decided, each according to his ability, to provide help for the brothers living in Judea.

Marx in 1875 voiced the socialist mantra:

from each according to ability; to each according to need.

Similar sentiments had been expressed by French Christian socialists in the early 19th century.

The redistributive aspect of love your neighbour has influenced political and theological thinking way beyond its original context in Acts of mutual support within Christian communities.

In order to provide resources  for, and to engage, collectively  in 'ambulance' work requires a raft of skills. An organisation has to be created,  constitution agreed, financial control and funding mechanisms established,  often charity registration and many statutory requirements to adhere to. In the religious sphere some churches are equipped to undertake the work involved, many are not. Loving your neighbour can be very complicated.