Finding Hope in a Sea of Injustice
Stories of injustice and suffering bombard us daily. From global conflicts to personal hardships, the prevalence of inequality and violence is overwhelming. The book of Ecclesiastes offers a timeless perspective on these issues, helping us navigate the complexities of life under the sun. While it acknowledges the harsh realities of our world, it also points us to a deeper hope and a just God who will ultimately right every wrong.
The Tears of the Oppressed
Ecclesiastes vividly portrays the sorrow and suffering of the oppressed. The Preacher observes, “I saw all the oppressions that are done under the sun. And behold, the tears of the oppressed, and they had no one to comfort them” (Ecclesiastes 4:1). This verse captures the profound loneliness and despair felt by those who suffer under unjust systems. The lack of comfort and the powerlessness of the oppressed are stark reminders of the world’s brokenness.
This sentiment resonates with many of us today. We see injustice not only in distant lands but also in our communities and personal lives. Family breakdowns, health crises, and mental health struggles remind us that injustice is pervasive and personal. The Preacher’s observations echo the feelings of those who question whether bringing a child into such a troubled world is wise. These feelings are not merely distant or theoretical; they are deeply rooted in our everyday experiences.
Why Doesn’t Somebody Do Something?
Faced with overwhelming injustice, a natural question arises: why doesn’t somebody do something? Ecclesiastes acknowledges this frustration, as seen in the various observations of systemic corruption and failure. The Preacher notes in Ecclesiastes 3:16, “In the place of justice, even there was wickedness, and in the place of righteousness, even there was wickedness.” The systems designed to promote justice are often tainted by corruption and fail to deliver the righteousness they promise.
As we grapple with this question, it’s important to recognise our role and responsibility. While the scope of injustice can feel paralysing, we are called to act within our spheres of influence. Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 emphasises the strength and support found in community: “Two are better than one… For if they fall, one will lift up his fellow.” This call to mutual support is a powerful antidote to the isolation and despair caused by oppression. As a community, we can comfort one another, advocate for justice, and stand against the forces of wickedness.
We Are Part of the Problem
One of the most challenging insights from Ecclesiastes is the recognition that we are part of the problem. The Preacher notes, “Surely there is not a righteous man on earth who does good and never sins” (Ecclesiastes 7:20). This acknowledgment of universal sinfulness underscores the idea that human efforts alone cannot eradicate injustice. We are all flawed and contribute to the world’s brokenness.
This idea is further elaborated in Ecclesiastes 5:8, where the Preacher comments on the systemic nature of injustice: “If you see in a province the oppression of the poor and the violation of justice and righteousness, do not be amazed at the matter, for the high official is watched by a higher, and there are yet higher ones over them.” Corruption and injustice are entrenched in human institutions, making it difficult to achieve true justice.
The realisation that we are part of the problem is humbling. It challenges us to look beyond human solutions and recognise our need for divine intervention. While we can and should work towards justice and comfort for the oppressed, we must also acknowledge our limitations and the pervasive nature of sin.
The Promise of Tears Being Wiped Away
Amid Ecclesiastes’ bleak observations, there is a glimmer of hope. The Preacher repeatedly invites us to “fear God,” suggesting that ultimate justice lies in His hands. This hope is fulfilled in the person of Jesus Christ. Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection provide the ultimate answer to the problem of injustice.
Jesus, the innocent one, suffered the greatest injustice by dying on the cross for our sins. His sacrifice demonstrates God’s profound love and commitment to justice. As Jesus cried out, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?” (Mark 15:34), He bore the weight of all our injustices, making a way for us to be reconciled to God.
The hope we find in Jesus is that He will return to right every wrong. Revelation 21:3-4 offers a vision of this future: “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people, and God himself will be with them as their God. He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” This promise assures us that the injustices and sufferings we experience now are not the end of the story.
As we navigate the injustices of this world, Ecclesiastes encourages us to trust in God’s ultimate justice. While we work towards justice and comfort the oppressed, we do so with the hope that God will one day wipe away every tear. This hope empowers us to persevere and be a community reflecting God’s love and justice.
The book of Ecclesiastes provides a sobering yet hopeful perspective on injustice. It acknowledges the deep sorrow and systemic nature of injustice while pointing us to a just and merciful God. Through Jesus Christ, we have the assurance that God has done something about injustice and will one day wipe away every tear. Hold on to this hope as we seek to be agents of God’s justice and comfort in a broken world.
Listen to Dave Miers’ sermon ‘Ecclesiastes 4:1-16 – The Search for Justice’ in our series THE END OF FUTILITY: