An advocate . . . speaks on behalf of another . . . . Implicit in the concept is the notion that the represented lacks the knowledge, skill, ability, or standing to speak for themselves. (Wikipedia)
1. This past Saturday I heard several advocates for people with disabilities speak. I appreciate improvements they have made over the years in the lives of people with handicaps, though they have sometimes been more radical in their demands than I would have been.
2. I recently picked up Art Gish's* Hebron Journal from the "Middle East" table at our annual International Festival. Gish recounts his experiences as part of a Christian Peacemaker team in the Hebron area, 1995-2001. The team advocated for Palestinians: listening to those on each side of the conflict; reporting to those outside the area; taking meaningful, nonviolent action; and working with other local nonviolent groups.
3. Last week, as part of the Narnia film hoopla, our local paper printed an article on C.S. Lewis, under the headline "C.S. Lewis: Christ's Advocate." (The title seemed backward. See definition above.) Christ is our Advocate, for which we are thankful.
My little children, these things write I unto you, that ye sin not. And if any man sin, we have an advocate with the Father, Jesus Christ the righteous. . . .
I John 2:1, KJV
Speaking up for those less powerful is a risk; it takes time, effort, and courage. I'm thankful for advocates, people who speak for the weak.
*Gish is part of New Covenant Fellowship, a Christian commune affiliated with the Church of the Brethren.
Additional reading: Lisa, blogging at Ability Not Disability, shares a story of advocating for her daughter (which ended up with her picture on the front of NY Newsday!).
2 comments:
Your thoughts bring to mind Esther as a sort of model advocate - at first being afraid of the danger and risk of advocacy, then when reminded that her lack of concern for the defenseless would ultimately backfire on HER, she stepped forward and took the risk. She certainly is a good example of how to advocate appropriately, humbly and effectively.
I'm not thankful or thoughtful enough about our ever-faithful Advocate. Thanks for the reminder! :-)
Yes, Esther is a good example.
Post a Comment