To Do Justice
A Guide for Progressive Christians
“Change” has become the now-tired buzzword of 2008, as voters bounce from sound bite to sound bite via TV, radio, and the Net. Americans on all sides are seeking answers to the enormous social, political, and economic woes facing the country. But, instead of coining a cute phrase or pat answer, editors Peters and Hinson-Hasty begin this book by asking, “What does it mean to be faithful in times of crisis?” How can communities understand and do something about the problems we’re now facing?
From the beginning*, To Do Justice* answers that there is no single solution. From there, it presents twelve essays by well-known social ethicists on justice and change—specifically, issues of immigration, prison, drug abuse, family life, public education, labor and unions, militarism, peace, and more. Each chapter defines an issue, then asks “What now?” or “What can be done?” There are questions for discussion in each chapter, a bibliography of books and Web resources, and extensive notes. The chapters assume that communities are responsible for public life, setting aside the notion that in America, one’s individual freedom and do-what-I-want-to-do power are supreme. Instead, the authors hearken back to God’s covenant with His people, citing a Christian’s duty to seek justice and offer hospitality to the least of one’s neighbors.
An excellent way to begin to understand the social, economic, and political issues facing this country, whether as a read-alone, or, even better, among adult discussion groups at church or in one’s neighborhood.
Disclosure: This article is not an endorsement, but a review. The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer. No fee was paid by the publisher for this review. Foreword Reviews only recommends books that we love. Foreword Magazine, Inc. is disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
