As a Christian, I am called to live a just life in the full sense of the word* – both seeking to do things rightly, and to correct injustice when it is in my power.
However, if I am not aware of an injustice, especially one that I am somehow part of, does that clear me?
For example, the food I eat, the clothing I wear, the items I purchase, even the technology I use, has an impact on people and the planet. And this impact is not small, though my part may be. Additionally, most of the impact is hidden from me, either far away or in warehouses and factories I never step foot in.
What I wrestle with is the question, does not knowing give me an out? If it does, won’t I tend to seek ignorance, so I don’t know the harms caused far away by my actions? I’m not personally poisoning rivers or paying slave wages, do I need to determine the source and ethical nature of every item I buy or consume? If I do, how can I live in today’s globalized society where one grocery shop includes items from nations around the world, with multiple inputs and sources beyond tracking?
I haven’t found an answer to this question (or all these questions), but every trip to the store or purchase online makes me think of these things. Who is working so that I can have this? Is my purchase making their life better or worse? Can I make a choice that might cost me more, but have a better impact? Am I willing to sacrifice? How much?
I think these are good questions to ask, especially in the west where our consumption has an oversized impact. We can make a difference, but it starts with a desire for awareness, and the willingness to take action at a cost.
* In Hebrew there are two words for justice:
tzadeqah | Primary justice, doing what is right and fair
mishpat | Rectifying justice, putting things right when there is injustice