Over this week and next, we will be reflecting on our ALIVE value: "We Value Justice and Respect."

Before we begin, think back to our Pentecost Service last week. What do you remember? Was it the colourful flags, the Bible readings, or singing Shine Jesus Shine together?

In this service, Mrs Duzniak and Chaplain Josh shared about the story of Janani Luwum. Janani was an Anglican Archbishop in Uganda during a time when many people were suffering under an unjust government. He courageously spoke out against violence, unfair treatment, and the abuse of power. Although he knew it was dangerous, he believed that God called him to stand up for justice and to respect the value of every human life.

In 1977, he was killed because of his opposition to injustice, but his courage continues to inspire Christians around the world.

Janani Luwum reminds us that justice is not just about fairness for ourselves – it is about standing up for others and treating everyone with respect. This sounds a bit like he is living the way God has called us to live – acting justly and loving mercy.

He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God.^{Micah 6:8}

Micah reminds us that justice is more than simply following rules, it means actively seeking fairness and standing up for those who are treated unfairly. Loving mercy means showing compassion, forgiveness, and kindness to others, even when they may not deserve it. Together, justice and mercy challenge us to care deeply about both what is right and how we treat people.

Discussion Questions

• Can you think of a time when it was difficult to stand up for what was right?
• How can we show justice and respect in our school community this week?

Prayer

Lord God,

Thank you for people like Janani Luwum who had the courage to stand up for justice. Help us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with you. Give us the strength to treat others with respect and to speak up when something is unfair.

Amen.