Given Rescue Mission ministry and services are rooted in biblical foundations, what can we change? I believe rather than directing our attention solely on salvation outcomes, the focus of our service must become more relational and come from a desire to live out Jesus in view of those we serve. If we enact a relational model, our gift of hospitality will not be directed simply as social service, but an extension of our own relationship with Christ, and thus we will empower those whom we serve ― not treat them as clients or recipients (2003, 108).
One of my staff stated it succinctly, "Are we reflecting the love of God when we make someone an object of our charity?"
From my 2011 paper: MD524-Advocacy for Social Justice: Reclaiming Missional Service with a View of Rescue Missions
Linthicum, Robert. 2003. Transforming Power: Biblical Strategies for Making a Difference in Your Community. Downers Grove: IVP.
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