Faith...a catalyst for change

I recently began reading a book by renowned US author and progessive evangelical Jim Wallis. I attended the launch of the book "7 Ways to change the world" which was part of a speaking tour with Tim Costello of World Vision. I was incredibly impressed by what I heard, and much of what he discussed resounded with much of my recent thoughts on 'the church' and the way it sees social justice, especially in pentecostal circles. I purchased the book as I was keen to know more, and hear someone elequiently express some of my own frustrations, but also propose a revolution of seeing social justice as woven into what should be the fabric of our Christian faith.


I have only read the first few chapters and have been deeply challenged not to let my convinctions slide on what I regard as a central part of the demonstration of my faith. Sometimes I find it can be easy to let days/weeks/months pass and only consider myself, what can I get from church, get from God and from others. This couldn't be further from my desire to see justice for those who lack the ability to seek their own justice, and for me to look beyond my own selfishness.

Last night I couldn't sleep as I reflected on my recent trip to India. Images burned in my mind of the children with bloated bellies and no shoes wandering the slums amongst the pigs and stray dogs. I began to realise I had neglected to share these images enough with those around me and advocate on these children's behalf. I find it difficult at times to continue with the "day to day" without making a tangible difference in the lives of those children. I am privililaged to work for an organisation that does makes a significant difference, but I often think this isn't enough for me.

How do I continue to ensure that my faith does not become intangled in self ambition and self promotion? But rather become a personal faith that becomes a catalist for change?

Luke 4:18-19
"The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to preach good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to release the oppressed, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor"