Few people would dispute that there is an abundance of poverty and suffering in the world. The author of "Possible," Stephan Bauman, challenges readers to rethink and change how they change the world. He invites individuals to look to see what bothers them the most and to choose one issue to immerse themselves in through researching the issue and praying about the issue. His premise is that if individuals take this call seriously there can be a real impact on the world around them. This can also be applied to a group of people as well.
One thought provoking idea is that the opposite of poverty is not wealth but community. In coming to the aid of those in need we need to re-examine what role we need to play in the area of need. Coming alongside those in need to help them develop their own networks and see themselves as their own agents of change is essential. A good example of that is in micro financing that is done in third world countries. A community sets up their own bank which people contribute their savings to and then also lends that money to people setting up their own business or enterprise. The money stays in the community and is re-invested. They are investing in each other's lives and making a difference in their community. This creates a sense of self worth and hope.
The back of the book has two tools - one tool is for discovering and designing change and the other is a tool for mobilizing, implementing and multiplying change. These tools could be used by an individual and also applied to a church or mission group. This book is for those who are serious about social justice and for making a difference in the lives of those suffering and in dire need.
I received this book for free from "Blogging for Books" for this review.
No comments:
Post a Comment