Generous Justice
School Truth & Transformation / Book Report "Generous Justice" by Timothy Keller
A. Questions from the Introduction
1. How do you identify with one of the people Keller writes about on pages x through xiv?
I don’t identify with the 4 groups of people that Keller mentions, but with Jonathan Edwards, and his understanding of the gospel, I believe like Keller, that in this book we have the basis for the human rights through all times. The calling to care for the poor, the needy, the foreign, the oppressed and the vulnerable is not an option. It's our main purpose and calling after been a son/daughter of God. Isaiah 58:6-7 and 61 is a practical way to worship our heavenly Father.
2. What are some injustices in our world? Have you personally witnessed an injustice? If so, explain what that was like.
Abortion, Sex trafficking, Racism, Poverty, Immigration, Gender Inequality + Discrimination to Woman, Starvation, Wars, Religious conflicts and Corruption, Lack of Education, Lack of Economic Opportunities and Employment, Inequality (income, discrimination), Lack of Accountability and Transparency in Government (corruption), Destruction of Nature , Lack of Safety, Lack of Food, Water and Security.
I have witnessed many kinds of injustices related to unfair salaries, abuse of power, lack of transparency, racism, discrimination, violence, etc. Its part of my personality to get involved each time I have the chance and do something about it. In the case of discrimination or racism, I usually jump in the middle of the situation where ever I’m at and try to fix it. With unfair salaries or abuse of power, I usually counsel the person that is not respecting her/himself. With the lack of transparency, I pray a lot and take courage to face the situation when I see a green light. When I see violence, if I can’t intervene, I pray. I’m not good at lying to my self and doing like things are right when they are not. I always will do my best to bring justice to whatever the situation is.
3. Identify justice related movement such as the ‘occupy movement’, ‘civil rights movement’, or a movement in your native nation/ nation of residence.
a. Why do you suppose the Church/ Christians often aren’t pro-active in support of such Movement?
It calls my attention that the evangelical church is not more pro-active intervening in ambiguous situations like with our Chilean natives, bad salaries for the poor, lack of opportunities for the young generations, not focused lifting up leaders to actively participate in the spheres of society, the lack determination for speaking for the voiceless. I think the Church is absent because she stepped out of the world, and now she doesn’t know how to step in and engage with society salting it.
b. How should the Church/ Christians respond to?
We should be involved in all issues, not to dominate but to influence with the revelation, wisdom, and knowledge of God. I believe that to be a good steward it means to take responsibility of all things here on earth, not some.
B. Questions from Chapters 1 and 2
1. What does it mean to “do justice”? “Love mercy”? “Walk humbly with your God”? Why do you
suppose these three phrases are together?
No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good,
and this is what he requires of you:
to do what is right, to love mercy,
and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
The word “justice” in Hebrew means “mishpat” that means to treat people equitably, to have the same rule of law for all people (foreign and native), it also means acquitting or punishing every person on the merits of the case, regardless of race or social status. Anyone who does the same wrong should be given the same penalty. Justice is also giving people their rights. In Micah 6:8 mishpat emphasis on the action of justice.
The word “mercy” in Hebrew means “chesedh” means God’s unconditional grace and compassion. In Micah 6:8 chesedh emphasis on the motive behind the action.
To walk humbly with the Lord means to know him intimately and to be attentive to what he desires and loves.
I believe these 3 words represent God’s character. They are intimately related, they depend on one another. To do justice means too take care of the vulnerable, to be the father to the fatherless, to defend the widows, to give food to the hungry, to free the oppressed, set free prisoners, watch over the immigrant, frustrate the plans of the wicked.
2. Why are the poor disproportionately victims of injustice?
Because they can’t afford the best legal counsel. They are victims of robbery, of social abuse, of unfair salaries, of all kind of injustices because of their weakness and no voice in the public arena. They are exploited, mistreated, not seen or respected, the rich can be richer while they oppress and abuse the poor. The poor are marginalizes of power, they cannot afford to offer incentives to lawmakers and judges to decide matters for their benefit.
3. How does God’s justice permeate your life?
Through his word and Holy Spirit, God’s justice permeates my life. His heart and wisdom shape my being, his laws make provision for the disadvantaged. God’s grace and generosity lay the foundations for the society of justice for all. It’s not our good works that bring salvation, but God’s love and mercy.
C. Questions from Chapters 3 and 4
1. John Newton stated (page 46), “One would almost think that Luke 14:12-14 was not considered part of God’s word, nor has any part of Jesus’ teaching been more neglected by his own people.” Why is this true or not true? Where have you seen this in your church or in your world?
It is true because what Keller shares about the patronage system of the time, in these days it works exactly the same, but with ministry involved. There are high elites of spirituality that don’t want to mix with the lower class. Like in the world, inside the Church, we are divided but different levels of influence. Rarely they mix because It is more about what we can win with our actions, rather than truly honor God reaching out to the isolated not expecting nothing in return. Jesus was attacking the rut of division by class and race, not sustaining the status quo of the time.
2. How would you describe a good, Christian life? Where does justice fit in?
I would define my success by stepping out of my comfort zone, see the fruits of my salvation taking place, with actions + good motives working together because of my love for Jesus and no other reason. This would look like having a passion for the poor, care for the sick, opening my home for the foreigners, giving financial aid, advocacy, love, support, friendship, community, shelter, etc. Every time I do this, I embracing Jesus!
3. In light of the justice conversation in the book, what does it mean to love your neighbor? Do you have an example of when you’ve done this?
Love means meeting material, physical, and economic need of a person. It means not only care for those we instinctively love. But care for those that are not easy to love. That is not of my same social class, or my same beliefs, or race. Love includes being sacrificially involved with the vulnerable. Love doesn’t step back when its hard. Love stands firm.
I have loved in uncomfortable situations, but not enough. I’ve had people living in my house for a short and long term when they don’t have where to because of no resources or lack of work.
D. Questions from Chapters 5 and 6
1. What is the importance of doing justice? What motivates you to do justice”?
Doing justice is the external mark that our hearts have been circumcised. It motivates me to have a grateful heart with actions showing the of the goodness and grace of my heavenly father.
2. Keller relates the “imago dei” (being God’s image bearers) to civil rights.
a. If someone asked you to tell them why every human being is of equal value and dignity, how would you answer?
Because all human beings are creations, not accidents. We all are made in Gods image, a work of art, that reflect and represent God here on earth. The sacredness of God has been imparted in us, we are infinitely valuable. We have the capacity to have fellowship with God.
b. Why are certain people in society often ignored and not treated as valuable?
Because they were born in unjust realities, and we Christians are not practicing the justice called us to do.
3. As a Christian,
a. How do you describe attitude the Church towards justice issues?
I think we face injustice issues from the door out. We don’t invite them in, they are not part of our problems as a Church. I don t see much difference in behavior between Christians and not Christians. Sacrifice comes from the most unexpected people.
b. How do we demonstrate a concern for the poor?
We demonstrate concern like an event. We don’t go deep, we don’t meet their needs, don’t commit to their realities. The poor are not our problem. It will all depend if there is a leader who has the mercy ministry in his heart, and if he responds or not to Gods cry. The poor injustice is not on the priority list of the Church to solve. It’s just a cause, like other causes, that will be attended depending on the leadership obedience. I believe the government, the Catholic Church, or the Christian ONG’s do more for the poor than the Evangelical Church.
4. Describe which level of doing justice – relief, development, social reform, etc (on page 113 and following) –you relate to, and explain ‘what’ (convictions) compels you to this level of doing justice?
I try to relate to the 3 levels in a one and one relationship or in a massive approach to the problem. I believe the gospel was meant to include the 3 stages “relief, development and social reform”, I would call this restoration or redemption. Jesus is not only worried about our salvation but of our transformation. When we are truly grateful for what Jesus has done in our lives, its natural to respond to our calling, that means to intervene in the life of people and offer them what God offered us freely. My personal commitment with the poor, the broken or the unjust reflects my love for Jesus. When I see myself indifferent in unjust situations, it breaks my heart, I repent and ask God how to make it right. My next step.
After salvation, an integral Gospel includes relief in whatever area it means (spiritual, physical, material, psychological) to the person or situation. Development is taking that person or unjust reality to the next step, walking through, stepping out of slavery, unforgiveness, poverty, jobless, unsafe place. Social reform means doing something about the root of the problem, intervening in the established reality and change it (do something about it), so we don’t bump in the same problem in the future.
Doing justice in poor communities includes direct relief, individual development, racial reconciliation, and social reform.
5. Tell a story of when you experienced or witnessed a situation concerning justice?
I have lots of stories, but one that makes me very happy is when I invited somebody that I didn’t know well to live in my house free for more than a year. I helped her connect to her calling (music and art), encouraged and helped her find a job. We made a true friendship that will last forever. I preached her the gospel with my words but especially with my actions. She still hasn’t stepped fully in a relationship with God, but I know that it’s in a working progress.
E. Questions from Chapters 7 and 8
1. On page163, Keller states, “no current political framework can fully convey the comprehensive Biblical vision of justice, and Christians should never identify too closely with a particular political party or philosophy.”
a. In response to this quote, write an essay:
i. Expanding the meaning of this quote
Because there is no current political framework that will express fully a biblical vision of justice, and there will always be many ways to want to approach to the same a problem, it is wiser to not identify with a particular political party, but work alongside and cooperate in the public arena with our strong convictions and beliefs for the wellbeings of society and all beings.
ii. Address perceived complexities & implications of identifying “... too closely with a particular political party or philosophy...”
It’s dangerous that we identify our selves with a political party if we belong to the Church sphere because no particular economic system or set of policies will have divine authority over a Nation. Also, it’s not appropriate as leaders to adopt a political agenda in our Churches and draw (manipulate) people (or our congregations) to our particular preferences. It's important to inform our congregations, teach with a biblical worldview, try to be partial rescuing the good of all parties, always praying and respecting the actual President, but never stepping out of the public arena.
2. Briefly respond to the following:
a. How should we conduct ourselves in the public sector?
First with humility, and a servanthood attitude and spirit. Wanting to build up people and not destroy them when we have different views. Apply the same grace and love we have for the poor with those we feel threatened because of their injustice and evil in the political sphere. Be rooted in our foundations and beliefs. Have one clear line of values to communicate and propose whatever the issue is. Be consistent. Have an open attitude to dialogue and find common ground with people. Be aware that we are proposing and modeling the Kingdoms standards and not imposing our ideas. Never forget that there is one Truth and we express our opinions. Give space to people to disagree and make questions. Continuously express our moral values through everything we do. That our actions speak louder than our words. That our actions come from a place of gratitude and responsibility, not self-righteous. That all the wisdom and revelation we have from Jesus makes us humble and not prideful. Have a fair attitude and give equal opportunities to people that need us and people we need of. With Gods grace honor Jesus in all times. Never sell our souls for more influence or power. The political sphere cries out for men and woman of God that truly want to serve and bless others and not themselves.
When we speak publicly, we should do so with thoughtfulness an grace, in recognition that Christians are not the only ones who see what needs to be done in the world. We shouldn’t be quoting the bible at nonbelievers or speaking aggressively to those that don’t share our religious beliefs. I like what Keller proposes that we Christians should be characterized by humble cooperation an respectful provocation.
b. What issue in the public arena stirs you up?
What moves me is inequality as a consequence of social injustice. It generates situations in which a privileged group controls, monopolizes or limits their access to education, work, services, medical care or opportunities of various kinds. The State must respect, protect and guarantee the human rights of all citizens. When it is dealt with deliberately or not, whether, through carelessness or omission, general situations of social injustice are worrisome. This inequality brings with it discriminatory situations that systematically deny access to education, work, health services, political participation, among other things. In this sense, the lack of human rights due to hunger, an insufficient salary to lead a dignified life, the denial of fundamental rights such as access to information, basic services or medical care impedes human flourishing. The segregation of the poorest, generates exclusion in school or work, among many other things. Labor exploitation, the violation at different levels of workers' rights, for abuses, mistreatment or threats from their employer that receive in payment an amount less than just. They are in situations similar to or equal to slavery.
c. How would you act with those who oppose your stand or opinion?
I will do my best to act with humility, grace and with a respectful attitude. I will try to not take it personally, but with wisdom and compassion. With the gender and abortion issue in my country, the discussion would get so aggressive, not only in the public arena but inside the Church too. I recognize in the past It was pretty hard for me to be wise especially with the Christians that had a passivity attitude because of their dualism and secular beliefs. Outside of Church, it's a bit easier to be respectful, even though I recognize in the past I've been ironic with a prideful attitude. God has been confronting all my being, that its all about honor and true relationships. I want to be intimately related to people without categorizing their actions and beliefs. I can't do it, but Jesus can.
d. What does it mean to “disadvantage” yourself for the weak?
I imagine it means to sacrifice my self for love. God has done so much in this area, especially when I worked in Church. So many causes, people, situations that I put as my priority even when I couldn’t, or didn’t want to. It’s God himself empowering us for the good works. I was also so weak, and that’s why this became a strength in my life. Absolutely nothing in me could say I was responsible for acting in love (responding to the need) and in faith. To give our time, our money, our lives for others, it's so rewarding. We were made to give ourselves to others. This brings us alive, it gives us purpose and this way, Jesus truly makes sense in our daily lives.
e. What direction is your attitude leaning toward the poor these days?
My heart is with them all the time. I need them, as they need me. I'm looking forward to seeing how we will bless one another working together. I don’t see them far from me. We belong to one another. I just pray that God gives me a good team to respond more effectively to their needs.
1. How do you identify with one of the people Keller writes about on pages x through xiv?
I don’t identify with the 4 groups of people that Keller mentions, but with Jonathan Edwards, and his understanding of the gospel, I believe like Keller, that in this book we have the basis for the human rights through all times. The calling to care for the poor, the needy, the foreign, the oppressed and the vulnerable is not an option. It's our main purpose and calling after been a son/daughter of God. Isaiah 58:6-7 and 61 is a practical way to worship our heavenly Father.
2. What are some injustices in our world? Have you personally witnessed an injustice? If so, explain what that was like.
Abortion, Sex trafficking, Racism, Poverty, Immigration, Gender Inequality + Discrimination to Woman, Starvation, Wars, Religious conflicts and Corruption, Lack of Education, Lack of Economic Opportunities and Employment, Inequality (income, discrimination), Lack of Accountability and Transparency in Government (corruption), Destruction of Nature , Lack of Safety, Lack of Food, Water and Security.
I have witnessed many kinds of injustices related to unfair salaries, abuse of power, lack of transparency, racism, discrimination, violence, etc. Its part of my personality to get involved each time I have the chance and do something about it. In the case of discrimination or racism, I usually jump in the middle of the situation where ever I’m at and try to fix it. With unfair salaries or abuse of power, I usually counsel the person that is not respecting her/himself. With the lack of transparency, I pray a lot and take courage to face the situation when I see a green light. When I see violence, if I can’t intervene, I pray. I’m not good at lying to my self and doing like things are right when they are not. I always will do my best to bring justice to whatever the situation is.
3. Identify justice related movement such as the ‘occupy movement’, ‘civil rights movement’, or a movement in your native nation/ nation of residence.
a. Why do you suppose the Church/ Christians often aren’t pro-active in support of such Movement?
It calls my attention that the evangelical church is not more pro-active intervening in ambiguous situations like with our Chilean natives, bad salaries for the poor, lack of opportunities for the young generations, not focused lifting up leaders to actively participate in the spheres of society, the lack determination for speaking for the voiceless. I think the Church is absent because she stepped out of the world, and now she doesn’t know how to step in and engage with society salting it.
b. How should the Church/ Christians respond to?
We should be involved in all issues, not to dominate but to influence with the revelation, wisdom, and knowledge of God. I believe that to be a good steward it means to take responsibility of all things here on earth, not some.
B. Questions from Chapters 1 and 2
1. What does it mean to “do justice”? “Love mercy”? “Walk humbly with your God”? Why do you
suppose these three phrases are together?
No, O people, the Lord has told you what is good,
and this is what he requires of you:
to do what is right, to love mercy,
and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8
The word “justice” in Hebrew means “mishpat” that means to treat people equitably, to have the same rule of law for all people (foreign and native), it also means acquitting or punishing every person on the merits of the case, regardless of race or social status. Anyone who does the same wrong should be given the same penalty. Justice is also giving people their rights. In Micah 6:8 mishpat emphasis on the action of justice.
The word “mercy” in Hebrew means “chesedh” means God’s unconditional grace and compassion. In Micah 6:8 chesedh emphasis on the motive behind the action.
To walk humbly with the Lord means to know him intimately and to be attentive to what he desires and loves.
I believe these 3 words represent God’s character. They are intimately related, they depend on one another. To do justice means too take care of the vulnerable, to be the father to the fatherless, to defend the widows, to give food to the hungry, to free the oppressed, set free prisoners, watch over the immigrant, frustrate the plans of the wicked.
2. Why are the poor disproportionately victims of injustice?
Because they can’t afford the best legal counsel. They are victims of robbery, of social abuse, of unfair salaries, of all kind of injustices because of their weakness and no voice in the public arena. They are exploited, mistreated, not seen or respected, the rich can be richer while they oppress and abuse the poor. The poor are marginalizes of power, they cannot afford to offer incentives to lawmakers and judges to decide matters for their benefit.
3. How does God’s justice permeate your life?
Through his word and Holy Spirit, God’s justice permeates my life. His heart and wisdom shape my being, his laws make provision for the disadvantaged. God’s grace and generosity lay the foundations for the society of justice for all. It’s not our good works that bring salvation, but God’s love and mercy.
C. Questions from Chapters 3 and 4
1. John Newton stated (page 46), “One would almost think that Luke 14:12-14 was not considered part of God’s word, nor has any part of Jesus’ teaching been more neglected by his own people.” Why is this true or not true? Where have you seen this in your church or in your world?
It is true because what Keller shares about the patronage system of the time, in these days it works exactly the same, but with ministry involved. There are high elites of spirituality that don’t want to mix with the lower class. Like in the world, inside the Church, we are divided but different levels of influence. Rarely they mix because It is more about what we can win with our actions, rather than truly honor God reaching out to the isolated not expecting nothing in return. Jesus was attacking the rut of division by class and race, not sustaining the status quo of the time.
2. How would you describe a good, Christian life? Where does justice fit in?
I would define my success by stepping out of my comfort zone, see the fruits of my salvation taking place, with actions + good motives working together because of my love for Jesus and no other reason. This would look like having a passion for the poor, care for the sick, opening my home for the foreigners, giving financial aid, advocacy, love, support, friendship, community, shelter, etc. Every time I do this, I embracing Jesus!
3. In light of the justice conversation in the book, what does it mean to love your neighbor? Do you have an example of when you’ve done this?
Love means meeting material, physical, and economic need of a person. It means not only care for those we instinctively love. But care for those that are not easy to love. That is not of my same social class, or my same beliefs, or race. Love includes being sacrificially involved with the vulnerable. Love doesn’t step back when its hard. Love stands firm.
I have loved in uncomfortable situations, but not enough. I’ve had people living in my house for a short and long term when they don’t have where to because of no resources or lack of work.
D. Questions from Chapters 5 and 6
1. What is the importance of doing justice? What motivates you to do justice”?
Doing justice is the external mark that our hearts have been circumcised. It motivates me to have a grateful heart with actions showing the of the goodness and grace of my heavenly father.
2. Keller relates the “imago dei” (being God’s image bearers) to civil rights.
a. If someone asked you to tell them why every human being is of equal value and dignity, how would you answer?
Because all human beings are creations, not accidents. We all are made in Gods image, a work of art, that reflect and represent God here on earth. The sacredness of God has been imparted in us, we are infinitely valuable. We have the capacity to have fellowship with God.
b. Why are certain people in society often ignored and not treated as valuable?
Because they were born in unjust realities, and we Christians are not practicing the justice called us to do.
3. As a Christian,
a. How do you describe attitude the Church towards justice issues?
I think we face injustice issues from the door out. We don’t invite them in, they are not part of our problems as a Church. I don t see much difference in behavior between Christians and not Christians. Sacrifice comes from the most unexpected people.
b. How do we demonstrate a concern for the poor?
We demonstrate concern like an event. We don’t go deep, we don’t meet their needs, don’t commit to their realities. The poor are not our problem. It will all depend if there is a leader who has the mercy ministry in his heart, and if he responds or not to Gods cry. The poor injustice is not on the priority list of the Church to solve. It’s just a cause, like other causes, that will be attended depending on the leadership obedience. I believe the government, the Catholic Church, or the Christian ONG’s do more for the poor than the Evangelical Church.
4. Describe which level of doing justice – relief, development, social reform, etc (on page 113 and following) –you relate to, and explain ‘what’ (convictions) compels you to this level of doing justice?
I try to relate to the 3 levels in a one and one relationship or in a massive approach to the problem. I believe the gospel was meant to include the 3 stages “relief, development and social reform”, I would call this restoration or redemption. Jesus is not only worried about our salvation but of our transformation. When we are truly grateful for what Jesus has done in our lives, its natural to respond to our calling, that means to intervene in the life of people and offer them what God offered us freely. My personal commitment with the poor, the broken or the unjust reflects my love for Jesus. When I see myself indifferent in unjust situations, it breaks my heart, I repent and ask God how to make it right. My next step.
After salvation, an integral Gospel includes relief in whatever area it means (spiritual, physical, material, psychological) to the person or situation. Development is taking that person or unjust reality to the next step, walking through, stepping out of slavery, unforgiveness, poverty, jobless, unsafe place. Social reform means doing something about the root of the problem, intervening in the established reality and change it (do something about it), so we don’t bump in the same problem in the future.
Doing justice in poor communities includes direct relief, individual development, racial reconciliation, and social reform.
5. Tell a story of when you experienced or witnessed a situation concerning justice?
I have lots of stories, but one that makes me very happy is when I invited somebody that I didn’t know well to live in my house free for more than a year. I helped her connect to her calling (music and art), encouraged and helped her find a job. We made a true friendship that will last forever. I preached her the gospel with my words but especially with my actions. She still hasn’t stepped fully in a relationship with God, but I know that it’s in a working progress.
E. Questions from Chapters 7 and 8
1. On page163, Keller states, “no current political framework can fully convey the comprehensive Biblical vision of justice, and Christians should never identify too closely with a particular political party or philosophy.”
a. In response to this quote, write an essay:
i. Expanding the meaning of this quote
Because there is no current political framework that will express fully a biblical vision of justice, and there will always be many ways to want to approach to the same a problem, it is wiser to not identify with a particular political party, but work alongside and cooperate in the public arena with our strong convictions and beliefs for the wellbeings of society and all beings.
ii. Address perceived complexities & implications of identifying “... too closely with a particular political party or philosophy...”
It’s dangerous that we identify our selves with a political party if we belong to the Church sphere because no particular economic system or set of policies will have divine authority over a Nation. Also, it’s not appropriate as leaders to adopt a political agenda in our Churches and draw (manipulate) people (or our congregations) to our particular preferences. It's important to inform our congregations, teach with a biblical worldview, try to be partial rescuing the good of all parties, always praying and respecting the actual President, but never stepping out of the public arena.
2. Briefly respond to the following:
a. How should we conduct ourselves in the public sector?
First with humility, and a servanthood attitude and spirit. Wanting to build up people and not destroy them when we have different views. Apply the same grace and love we have for the poor with those we feel threatened because of their injustice and evil in the political sphere. Be rooted in our foundations and beliefs. Have one clear line of values to communicate and propose whatever the issue is. Be consistent. Have an open attitude to dialogue and find common ground with people. Be aware that we are proposing and modeling the Kingdoms standards and not imposing our ideas. Never forget that there is one Truth and we express our opinions. Give space to people to disagree and make questions. Continuously express our moral values through everything we do. That our actions speak louder than our words. That our actions come from a place of gratitude and responsibility, not self-righteous. That all the wisdom and revelation we have from Jesus makes us humble and not prideful. Have a fair attitude and give equal opportunities to people that need us and people we need of. With Gods grace honor Jesus in all times. Never sell our souls for more influence or power. The political sphere cries out for men and woman of God that truly want to serve and bless others and not themselves.
When we speak publicly, we should do so with thoughtfulness an grace, in recognition that Christians are not the only ones who see what needs to be done in the world. We shouldn’t be quoting the bible at nonbelievers or speaking aggressively to those that don’t share our religious beliefs. I like what Keller proposes that we Christians should be characterized by humble cooperation an respectful provocation.
b. What issue in the public arena stirs you up?
What moves me is inequality as a consequence of social injustice. It generates situations in which a privileged group controls, monopolizes or limits their access to education, work, services, medical care or opportunities of various kinds. The State must respect, protect and guarantee the human rights of all citizens. When it is dealt with deliberately or not, whether, through carelessness or omission, general situations of social injustice are worrisome. This inequality brings with it discriminatory situations that systematically deny access to education, work, health services, political participation, among other things. In this sense, the lack of human rights due to hunger, an insufficient salary to lead a dignified life, the denial of fundamental rights such as access to information, basic services or medical care impedes human flourishing. The segregation of the poorest, generates exclusion in school or work, among many other things. Labor exploitation, the violation at different levels of workers' rights, for abuses, mistreatment or threats from their employer that receive in payment an amount less than just. They are in situations similar to or equal to slavery.
c. How would you act with those who oppose your stand or opinion?
I will do my best to act with humility, grace and with a respectful attitude. I will try to not take it personally, but with wisdom and compassion. With the gender and abortion issue in my country, the discussion would get so aggressive, not only in the public arena but inside the Church too. I recognize in the past It was pretty hard for me to be wise especially with the Christians that had a passivity attitude because of their dualism and secular beliefs. Outside of Church, it's a bit easier to be respectful, even though I recognize in the past I've been ironic with a prideful attitude. God has been confronting all my being, that its all about honor and true relationships. I want to be intimately related to people without categorizing their actions and beliefs. I can't do it, but Jesus can.
d. What does it mean to “disadvantage” yourself for the weak?
I imagine it means to sacrifice my self for love. God has done so much in this area, especially when I worked in Church. So many causes, people, situations that I put as my priority even when I couldn’t, or didn’t want to. It’s God himself empowering us for the good works. I was also so weak, and that’s why this became a strength in my life. Absolutely nothing in me could say I was responsible for acting in love (responding to the need) and in faith. To give our time, our money, our lives for others, it's so rewarding. We were made to give ourselves to others. This brings us alive, it gives us purpose and this way, Jesus truly makes sense in our daily lives.
e. What direction is your attitude leaning toward the poor these days?
My heart is with them all the time. I need them, as they need me. I'm looking forward to seeing how we will bless one another working together. I don’t see them far from me. We belong to one another. I just pray that God gives me a good team to respond more effectively to their needs.
Comentarios
Publicar un comentario