Jesus at the G8

CT Article points the growing awareness amongst evangelicals about the need to be a prophetic voice for the people of Africa.  While the political specifics can be a source of debate, the need is so great in Africa that in beckons us to work together in every good way possible.

This video is pretty powerful, too.

Let's pray for the G8 leaders and then continue to seek God about how the church can do much more than just ask governments to solve this problem. (HT: Derek Simmons for the article.)

I believe the body of Christ is supposed to be the salt and light, right?

Comments

[Keith]

Amen Tod.

I confess I get a bit frustrated when the options for answers are painted as "either" government "or" church, when I believe Jesus wants to rule over all.

We need to be living more simply, living justly, giving generously etc, but we can't wipe out Africa's debts or change the injustices of the trade situation. Our governments can, and - as you say - we do need to be a prophetic voice calling for that justice.

I've been exploring a few of these themes back at Under the Acacias.

Blessings.

[Tim C]

Nicely said Tod and Keith..

I'd also point out this:

"Over 35 British and American leaders of churches and faith-based organizations will meet in London to discuss, pray and reflect on uplifting global poverty as the top agenda item for the upcoming G8 Summit. The trans-Atlantic delegation will meet with British Chancellor Gordon Brown. The Most Reverend and Right Honorable Rowan Williams, the Archbishop of Canterbury, will host a discussion Forum with the British and American religious leaders at Lambeth Palace in London on Wednesday, June 29th. A press conference at Lambeth Palace will follow the Forum.

This group includes:

Rev. David Beckmann, President of Bread for the World
Rev. Rich Cizik, VP of Government Affairs at the National Association of Evangelicals
Mr. Robb Davis, Director of the Mennonite Central Committee
Commissioner William Francis, International Secretary of the Salvation Army
Rev. Wes Granberg-Michaelson, General Secretary of the Reformed Church in America
Mr. Mark Lancaster, Coordinator, Presbyterian Hunger Program
Bishop George McKinney, Presidium of the Church of God in Christ
Dr. Glenn Palmberg, President of the Evangelical Covenant Church
Rev. Ron Sider, President and Founder of Evangelicals for Social Action
Father Andrew Small, Policy Advisor, U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops
Mr. Rich Stearns, President of World Vision U.S.
Rev. Geoff Tunnicliffe, International Coordinator/CEO, World Evangelical Alliance
Rev. Jim Wallis, Executive Director of Sojourners and Convener of Call to Renewal
Bishop Peter Weaver, President of the United Methodist Church Council of Bishops
Bishop Peter Rogness, Bishop of St. Paul Area Synod, Evangelical Lutheran Church of America

http://www.sojo.net/index.cfm?action=news.display_article&mode=P&NewsID=4860

[Brian]

Well said, Tod. The Christian circles I come from seem to think that legislation is the only way to solve social problems.

As an aside, I ran into you the other day, but had to leave so fast I didn't get a chance to say anything-I was the kid leading worship at Hollywood Pres.' staff meeting Tuesday morning. Wish I didn't have to run out of there so fast, it would have been great to tell you how encouraged I've been by your "neophyte blogging."

[David M. Smith]

Hi Tod,

Do you have any more mission trips to Africa planned? Can I join?

[Nate]

Nice site. I thought you might enjoy the following blog:

http://preachingpeace.blogs.com/