The balance or the scales of justice are held in her right hand. The weight of the facts of the case are to stand alone on their own merit. After corroboration of the details and testimony of the presented information and witnesses, the scale then tips to one side or the other. Jurors and judges make their own appraisal of the force of evidence weighing down each side. Though imperfect, the pursuit of justice is served.

As I approached the county courthouse for jury duty, my unfocused mind was in many different places, including being sincerely burdened by the state of our nation. I had filled out the eligibility questionnaire, made arrangements with my employer, and was committed to fulfilling my civic duty. I was self-absorbed with the logistics of life responsibilities that made the day possible.

But as I entered the courthouse, amidst the marble columns and the incredible stained-glass dome surrounded by paintings of allegorical representations of the law and the pursuit of justice, I honestly was taken aback. A sense of duty to the basic and imperative principles of a democratic society came racing into my mind. I immediately recollected that God has defined truth and justice for us, and He has called those made in his image to do and act justly. I literally stopped in my tracks. I quickly realized that this was not some thoughtless exercise that people often disrespect and try to get out of or get over with as soon as possible, but a very high calling on which our free society was built and is defended.

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