If I asked you, who King Lemuel was in the Bible… the answer isn’t likely to be on the tip of your tongue! Pretty much the only thing we know about him is that he wasn’t too powerful or arrogant to listen to advice from his mother! The King’s mother did not want the power going to her son’s head! Before his coronation, she warns him against abusing his power. She reminds him of his duty to uphold justice and protect the weak. A mandate that remains for Christians today.

How would King Lemuel’s mother judge the church today? Sadly, throughout history, some Christian leaders have abused those weaker than themselves and betrayed their privilege. Others have smothered the voice of the weak and protected their friends. This Safeguarding Sunday we will acknowledge this sin, remembering that Jesus stands in solidarity with those who have endured abuse.