Wednesday, April 17, 2013

Liberty Denied to the Poor

I read this post and thought it was interesting and maybe even a little depressing.  It contrasts two views of economic development and explains how the one that was followed has created problems in third world countries where the value of the person is diminished.  It mentions the an oil push in Uganda promoted by the World Bank and Ugandan government that is pushing poor villagers out of their homes.  It reminds me of Little Bee.

http://blog.acton.org/archives/53313-liberty-for-me-but-not-for-thee.html

2 comments:

Anonymous said...

When reading this post I thought of Covenant's Honduras Mission Strategy posted on church's website:
In most countries, relationships and the trust of indigenous leadership can take years to develop. The navigation of local customs and laws is complex. Our approach to missional engagement is compassionate and well-intentioned but it is possible we cannot be sensitive to local leadership. We want our missional engagement with Honduras to be sustainable. Therefore, we work through and with Mike and Ginger Greene.

God has been working in countries long before we were born. We should not think that we’re bringing Jesus to people. We must reflect the heart of listening, respecting, serving and learning so that we see Christ’s own response to the world.

Covenant’s focus is on building relationships with those who already serving there. While we may get great video for our missional campaign, we cherish positive reviews from those we are really endeavoring to love. We desire to build sustainable and holistic long-term relationships more than to complete short-term missions trips. Our Honduras ministry endeavors are to be long on relationships not good intentions. Rather than a position of authority we hold a posture of true servants. We are to move in Honduras with great hearts. Our focus is on truly loving people and let the Holy Spirit do the transformation. Going and serving is a good thing. But we should go with the perspective of a long-term relational learner and with the commitment to build relationships with the local ministries. At Covenant we are willing to follow, to listen and to love without any strings.

Thoughts of This Bill said...

Nicely put.

Sounds like
"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve, and to give His life-a ransom for many"
and
"The greatest among you will be your servant"
Sounds like a very appropriate Mission Statement.
"Long on relationships not good intentions."