[beanbag]

by shane claiborne.

I really liked it. I don't agree with everything (which doesn't mean I disagree, necessarily. I have just reserved judgment on some things.) but it was very thought-provoking and very interesting. and it was a fun read in terms of writing-style. he came to speak at my school a few years ago, and reading the book was like listening to him talk.

I recommend it, if for no other reason than to spark some thought and conversation about the topics he covers, particularly poverty in this country and abroad, and how we should address it as followers of Jesus.

anyone else read it and care to share thoughts/opinions?

[Adam+]

One of my favorite books. What I like most about it is that he practices what he preaches. He doesn't just say "We need to be Jesus to the poor" and then goes off to his mansion or whatever, he actually lives among the poor. He doesn't just say, "We should realize what effect this war is having on Iraqi Christians," he has actually been to Iraq and has had communion and fellowship with the Iraqi people.

[AlphaSigma]

At the very least, if you don't agree with him. It's hard not to find it deeply convicting. At least that was my experience.

[tmlfan123]

Originally Posted by beanbag

I don't agree with everything (which doesn't mean I disagree, necessarily. I have just reserved judgment on some things.)

That's just about exactly how I felt about it.

Originally Posted by beanbag

I recommend it, if for no other reason than to spark some thought and conversation about the topics he covers, particularly poverty in this country and abroad, and how we should address it as followers of Jesus.

Definitely makes you think. My mom started a book club because of this book and they had lengthy discussions every week about each chapter.

[AlphaSigma]

Careful,
That book club can become an irresistible revolution.

[tmlfan123]

Originally Posted by AlphaSigma

Careful,
That book club can become an irresistible revolution.

It actually kind of has...

Ever since she read that book my mom has been getting more and more involved in our community - her latest project is helping start up a food bank in our town.

[AlphaSigma]

Originally Posted by tmlfan123

It actually kind of has...

Ever since she read that book my mom has been getting more and more involved in our community - her latest project is helping start up a food bank in our town.

Then Shane's plan has worked!

[beanbag]

you know, it's really good for promoting change in local communities. you don't have to go out and change the world all at once (although hey, that's my aspiration), but instead can start changing communities from the inside out.

I really need to reread it a few times over. I gave my best friend back her copy and I think I may just have to buy my own.

[AlphaSigma]

Originally Posted by beanbag

you know, it's really good for promoting change in local communities. you don't have to go out and change the world all at once (although hey, that's my aspiration), but instead can start changing communities from the inside out.

I really need to reread it a few times over. I gave my best friend back her copy and I think I may just have to buy my own.

"Where grass pierces concrete." I love that phrase.

[tmlfan123]

Originally Posted by beanbag

you know, it's really good for promoting change in local communities. you don't have to go out and change the world all at once (although hey, that's my aspiration), but instead can start changing communities from the inside out.

my mom would be dancing for joy if she read this...

[AlphaSigma]

Well you know what Shane says, "It starts small, like a mustard seed but has the capacity to take over everything." Little by little. Doing small things with great amounts of love.