The Just Life 2013 Handbook
The Just Life’s 2013 Handbook is now available for free download here. We are very excited about the new graphics. The book contains all of the Core Concepts, Initiative Develop Materials, and introductory fact sheets for each justice issue. Please let us know what you think.
Read MoreEveryday Lives of Love and Justice
Introduction “Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could do only a little.” ~Edmund Burke If you are paying attention, it can be overwhelming. In the headlines and on your street, the brokenness of humanity cries out through division and suffering: extreme poverty and the gap between rich and poor seems to grow exponentially; human …
Read MoreCore Concepts 8: Be All In
We must come to terms with the reality that there is no hierarchy of Christian discipleship, no acceptable “levels” of commitment. From day one, being a disciple of Christ has been an all-in, all-or-nothing proposition. A call to completely give up the life we have planned so as to have the life awaiting us. Of course, there have always been …
Read MoreCore Concepts 7: Start Small, Dream Big
A “just life” is one that refuses to neglect even the smallest act of compassion (to suffer with) while being willing to be incarnate in the development of others (loving your neighbor as yourself) while relentlessly pursuing the most revolutionary structural change (the redemption of fallen systems):
Read MoreCore Concepts 6: Uniquely Called
Being transformed and being a part of a transformational community requires a commitment to spiritual discipline and to being stewards of the unique calling God has placed on each of our lives. Loving God and loving others with all our heart, soul and strength means that every area of our lives must be seen belonging to Christ and His Kingdom.
Read MoreCore Concepts 5: Follow Christ’s Lead
Where do we begin? Our character begins to follow Christ’s lead as we interact with people through love. His lead is incarnate. This means we are to live among and rub shoulders with those who need us. We can’t love at a distance. You cannot commute to a calling. We too must become “incarnational.” This is the essence of living …
Read MoreCore Concepts 4: Dying to Self
There is no getting around it: All of history, every bit of data, the best modern technology and methodology has to offer conclude the exact same thing. There will never be a way to simply “add justice” to your already good life – no seven easy steps to a life of love and justice, no box to check on the …
Read MoreCore Concepts 3: Be Agents of Change
God is at work in the world reclaiming his beloved creation (Colossians 1:15-20) : Through Christ we are called to participate in the “in-breaking” of His amazing Kingdom here and now. We must first be reconciled to God and the way we engage others also must be transformed. Accordingly, we are to be active partners with God in reconciling mankind …
Read MoreWhy they called us Christians
Have you ever given much thought to why we are called “Christians?” The early church never called themselves Christians. Jesus never gave a name to his followers. In the Bible the title most often used was “saints.”[1] The Greek word for saints is “hagios” which means “consecrated to God, holy, sacred, pious.” It is almost always used in the plural, …
Read MoreDoing Justice, Loving Mercy, Walking Humbly
After seeing Chuck Colson speak at Moody’s Founder’s Week last night it reminded me of an old article of his that I keep on file and think all should read… Doing Justice, Loving Mercy, Walking Humbly
Read MoreAdvent Words 4: He has performed mighty deeds – A modest proposal
Andrew Arndt, a pastor, writer, husband, father, friend, and one of my favorite theologians has shared some characteristically beautiful thoughts on Advent:
Read MoreWhat is Christian Social Justice?
The two articles below serve as fitting introduction to the conversation. First, a quick clarification: The Just Life as a ministry is about more than what is commonly understood as social justice. Yes, Christians should be involved in social justice, however, “social justice” is simply not a big enough term for our God and is not an apt description of what …
Read MoreScripture List: The Bible on Wealth
We have compiled another scripture list. This time specifically on what the Bible has to say about wealth. This list is not exhaustive, and at this point no commentary is included — just scripture. Also read and reflect on the Justice Scripture list, the Bible on the Poor, and on Dying to Self.
Read MoreBackwater Jesus
This Christmas let us all be reminded of the blessed dignity Christ gave to poor oppressed people in dire circumstances living in backwater parts of the world by being born to poor oppressed parents under dire circumstances living in a backwater part of the world. Let us reflect on Mary’s first words of song after she was told that she …
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