Defenders

Individuals vulnerable to attack are all around us.  They include children of all ages and the elderly.  We often add the weak and handicapped to the list.  I actually think there is a better description of every category.  One might describe those most susceptible to evil’s hand as the innocent.  It is descriptor that includes more than children, elders, weak, and handicapped.  Included on the list are those in pursuit of truth, representatives of mercy, and champions of peace.  Observations indicate that we recognize and gravitate to defending the first list while ignoring others.  I would go on to suggest that within our highest calling to be equally passionate about every soul under attack.  For it is in those moments that we hold the opportunity to truly understand Divinity’s engagement with every individual.
I find myself caught in a prophet’s words; “Right-living people die and no one gives them a thought.  God-fearing people are carted off and no one even notices.  The right-living people are out of their misery, they're finally at rest.”  (Isaiah 57.1)  Is this what I want for defenders of truth?  Is this acceptable?  Can I sit idly by if I know the facts?
It is not easy to do nothing when one sees innocent people die, even if they are a world away, like Myanmar.  Yet I find myself struggling with the reality of people slowing dying all around me. 
It is not easy fully engage in the business of living if I am blind to those in need.  Is there a balance or is the very idea of being balanced while at war with hunger, oppression, and exploitation a contradiction without end. 
It is not easy to enjoy the comforts of family and friends while others live and struggle alone. 
I am not suggesting that anyone gives up on what is within her or his life.  I am suggesting that the world is bigger than our immediate grasp.  It is our highest calling to engage in the business of living.  At the heart is defending the truth and the innocents.