In this episode, Ken Shuman reflects on a passage from a book by an Old Testament scholar, Walter Brueggemann as well as on Mt. 15:1-9. In the passage Brueggemann discusses the difficult relationship between faith and politics - and further, chaos versus order and justice versus injustice. The kings were the agents of order in the history of the people of Israel, and the prophets were the agents of justice. Justice is a major concern throughout scripture - justice for everyone, and particularly those who have no power.

Brueggemann concludes that when royal order conflicts with God-willed justice, order must yield to justice - even if it creates a system of disorder in the process. In fact, the Bible celebrates justice at the expense of order, although it holds both as important. Moreover, we as the people of God - the people of shalom - have a responsibility and a call to speak to injustice.

This episode was recorded on January 30, 2026.