Certainly, there are many times in which we can make our own defense and plead our own case. But at other times we need an advocate to stand up for us – someone who fights for our interests when we cannot do so ourselves. And, to be sure, there are times for us to serve as an advocate for others as well.
Perhaps we see this need clearest in a court of law. We hire a lawyer to defend us because most of us are not trained in the finer points of the legal system. We need someone who knows us, and the language of the court, to make a compelling case on our behalf.
And this plays out in personal and professional references as well. The reference vouches for our character or work ethic in a way we could not do on our own.
And, of course, there’s the need for an advocate for those who are overlooked or bullied in our communities. They need someone to defend their cause and bring justice to their situation.
Without a doubt, Jesus is our advocate. He’s the one who pleads our case before God the Father. And he stood up for the cause of others as he walked on the earth as well – disrupting the status quo to heal those in need.
Following his example, advocating for others is part of our responsibility to our communities – protecting those who cannot defend themselves.
We stand up for those weighted down by guilt and shame, for those suffering in the hands of injustice, and for everyone still on the messy road toward the better God has for them.
In the end, advocates remind us we don’t have to walk alone. And their defense and support of us opens the door for much life and goodness.
Find an advocate in your time of need. And be ready to fight for the cause of others in their time of need as well.
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