There are many parts of scripture that highlight the role of the church and to us as members of the Body of Christ to be advocates as we strive to live together as God intends.  For me the two scripture passages quoted above have particularly shaped my thoughts and work as an advocate.

In this quote from Matthew, the love of God and the love of neighbor are firmly welded together.  They are equal and inseparable.  Because and when we love God, we must love our neighbors.  To love our neighbors is to imitate God by taking their needs seriously.  Being the "church in society" provides a means for us to carry out our mandate to love our neighbor.  Addressing social issues involves three areas of activity:  service, study and advocacy.  Direct service and study are very important but their companion, advocacy is also very important because advocacy helps to address the causes of social injustice through changes in public policy.

Your involvement in the advocacy of Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM is crucial.

• Join our Advocacy Network using the link on our home page or (send your name and address to Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM)
  
• Attend the annual Bishop's Luncheon and the fall advocacy conference to learn more about our Advocacy Agenda.
  
• Invite a speaker from Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM to talk to a group or class
  
• Be willing to come to Santa Fe during a legislative session to meet with legislators
  
• Respond to action alerts during legislative sessions by calling, e-mailing or writing to legislators
  
• Talking with your legislators about our Advocacy Agenda when they are at home in their districts
  
• Keep the ministry of Lutheran Advocacy Ministry-NM in your prayers.