Day 18 (Wednesday 25 August) - A Call Towards Social Justice

by NECF Malaysia 40-Day Fast & Prayer

At the launch of the Government Transformation Programme held on 18 December 2009 at the Sunway Convention Centre, Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Dato' Idris Jala said there were approximately 44,000 households classified as extreme poor under the poverty income level. According to the mid-term review of the 9th Malaysia Plan, a poor family is classified as one whose income earning is less than RM720-00 in the peninsula and RM960-00 and RM380-00 in Sabah and Sarawak respectively. Some have suggested that the poorest 10% of the population have only a 1.7% hold of the economic income compared to the richest 10% who control 38.4% of the income.

This simple statistic reveals a great disparity in terms of income and resources between the rich and poor. This social injustice is a setback in the Government's agenda to eradicate poverty. The Government has acknowledged the weaknesses in the National Key Result Area (NKRA). We need further involvement from churches, especially from the younger generation. But are our youths prepared to take up the cause for social justice for the poor or are they too "young" to be troubled by such realities? Believers, regardless of age, must be reminded that they are called to be salt and light for the nation. As light unto the nation, we have the responsibility to take on this cause for those who have been sidelined and marginalised.

Reflection: Micah 6:8, Isa 1:17. What is the Lord impressing upon your heart in regards to Scriptures? Renounce any indifference and apathy towards the poor and marginalised. Ask the Lord to fill us with love and compassion.

Prayer Points
■ Breakthrough in our younger generation to be conscientised on these realities and be moved to show compassion and mercy in dealing with the poor and marginalised.
■ Body of Christ will be generous in releasing wealth for God's redistribution to advance His Kingdom in places and among peoples in deep spiritual and material need.
■ Effective community services / projects run by local churches to impact poor communities. Lord of Harvest to release workers into these areas to minister effectively to break the yoke and set the people free from every bondage.
■ Government to effectively implement projects and policies and that will eradicate poverty. Wisdom in law enforcement to battle the various social problems in the country such as drugs, child abuse, rape, prostitution, violence, gangsterism, gambling etc. Exposing and eradicating corruption in every governing body