This article struck me as timely when it popped into my inbox this afternoon. Last night, as I spoke with some friends doing ministry in our neighborhood, we were talking about Bob Lupton and others who so gently and wisely re-direct well-intentioned service by people who actually hurt communities they are trying to help.
Don't get me wrong-- I am less and less convinced that I know the "right way" to serve troubled communities. A few years ago, I might have been fiery and self-righteous on the subject. Now, I have some suggestions, but mostly a whole lot of stories and unresolved questions.
Which brings me back to why I liked this article. In it, Lupton poses questions that prompt critical thinking about the how and why of church service projects. I hope and pray that more churches are willing to put more thought into the means and ends of their service, so that mutual transformation could be a REAL thing-- bringing new life to churches and their communities.
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