To be marginalized is to relegate a person or a group of people or treat them as unimportant and powerless in an unfair way. Marginalization is a general phenomenon throughout the world. It cuts across all segments of the society. People are marginalized when there is high level of corruption; injustice and selfishness of the ruling elite who refuse to apply justice and fairness to all. There are, however, some people who are naturally marginalized in the society like the poor, foreigners, the lame, widows, and the orphans. Some leaders forget that God demands justice for all.
Our key text contains various laws that God gave to the Israelites, as a community. The reasons for giving these laws was for their wellbeing. In fact, the lesson emphasizes sympathy and the poor generosity. The rich should not exploit. There is a similar command in Exodus 22 that the Israelites should not ill-treat or oppress foreigners, widows, or orphans in the community. God expects us to be kind to them.
What is your view about some churches that organize cooperative societies and encourage members to get loans with low interest rate?.
God was indeed concerned about the welfare of those who are marginalized among the Israelites. Because the people are indigent and defenseless, they were susceptible to cheating (marginalization). The admonition is timely for employers of labour at every level. Wages and salaries should be paid to workers to avoid incessant strikes, protests and suffering. James made it clearer when he said that the cry of unpaid workers has reached the ears of the Lord Almighty (James 4:5).
• When employers of labour fail to pay workers as and when due, what could be the economic and social consequences?
• Discuss some obstacles that have prevented the total elimination of poverty in our society.
• God is interested in the well-being of both the Rich and the Poor
• Show kindness to the less privileged around you.
“Remember that you were slaves in Egypt and the Lord your God redeemed you from there, that is why I command you to do this.”(Deuteronomy 24:18.)
