"The Hole In Our Gospel" by Richard Stearns

As President of World Vision US, Richard Stearns has seen first hand the unimaginable poverty and sickness that faces millions of people around the world. And as a Christian he has found himself looking into the eyes of these people and asking the question "What does God expect of us?"


In the book The Hole in Our Gospel Stearns sets out to answer this question. Through personal anecdotes and Scripture, he attempts to show other Christians that we are lacking in an important part of Jesus' teaching - helping the poor. If people worldwide could do what they are truly capable of, then a lot of the suffering around the world could be ended.


This is a very inspiring book for both Christians and non-Christians. In addition to his own personal story, Stearns shares the stories of people involved in all aspects of World Vision, donors and recipients alike, who have made a difference in our world. At times it may seem like the problems are too large for one person, but if everyone comes together and does what they can, then a big change could take place.


One thing that I appreciated about the book is that it's not just a way to get the reader to donate to World Vision. It's not a fundraising appeal. It's about looking at our world and the suffering that exists and seeing what role we can play in ending that. As well, while the message can seem harsh and judgmental at times, it's not. We can do better than we are doing right now and we owe it to others to do better.


This is a book that should be read by everyone. The stories will move you to think about what you can do in your own life. Though it is heavy on Scripture and the teachings of Jesus, I think non-Christians will still enjoy the book and find inspiration in it. Christians will be motivated to look at their lives and ask themselves the question "what does God expect of me?" I'm sure that many of us will be surprised at the answer when we realize what we are called to do and the difference that we can really make in this world.

Comments

  1. lisa :)January 11, 2011 at 1:58 PM

    Great review and a very timely topic. I'm always on the lookout for good books about justice and serving the under-resourced so I'll have to check this one out!

    ReplyDelete
  2. AnonymousJanuary 11, 2011 at 6:43 PM

    Looks like I'll have to add this one to my 'to be read' list.

    I read a lot of personal growth books and one thing your review made me think about is that fact that none of those books have referred to helping other people as a way to help yourself. Interesting.....

    -Shannon

    ReplyDelete

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