Philippians 4:9
Keep on doing the things that you have learned and received and heard and seen in me, and the God of peace will be with you.
Reflection
Similarly to listening, learning is rooted in lived experience.
Paul’s letters ask his readers to do two things captured in this verse – to learn from his lived experience, and to put his lessons into practice. JPIT centres listening and learning from those with lived experience of societal injustices. As a Christian convert, Paul illustrates how the experience of God’s presence can be shared through mission and discipleship. Similarly, we can learn from those with lived experience of the material world and its injustices, to share their stories with leaders and advocate for a reordered society reflective of God’s heart for justice.
The Methodist Church exemplified both this learning and ‘put[ting] into practice’ as the lead funder of the Let’s End Poverty campaign. By spotlighting those who have experienced poverty through letters to the Prime Minister, the campaign sought to educate our political leaders and emphasised the issues experienced by those living in poverty in the run-up to the General Election.
JPIT more widely helps churches and individuals understand complex political and justice issues, to be better informed and empowered to make change happen. For example, our Just Economics course explores how money relates to power, inequality, and justice. Our team members also delivered the Iona Community Lecture, ‘Turning the Tables’ in 2024, highlighting why and how we can challenge current economic models as Christians.
From the voices of those with lived experience and expertise, we can learn to provide justice-centred opportunities for mission. A theology or politics degree isn’t necessary to understand God’s passion for justice. As disciples of Jesus, we are committed to a lifelong journey of learning about faith and justice. Learning is not passive, but it is the key to unlocking the practice of justice. We are called to continuously implement our learning and contribute to a better world.
Prayer
Lord Jesus,
help us to be humble and willing
to learn from others,
whatever our age or background.
Build us up with compassion
to listen to those with lived experience of injustice.
Give us the tools to put our learning into practice
by working together for justice and peace.
As informed Christians,
enable us to be active in our mission
for a better Earthly world.
Amen.