The Unlikely Missionary By Dan King.

I received this book for free from Dan King on the promise of writing a review of the book.
In the United States we live in the richest country in the world. We have welfare programs that pay for more than the basic necessities for citizens of our country. We really don't know about poverty and hunger. We really don't know about disease as we have the most advanced medical facilities close by. We really don't know about community either, because we live in a nation that is geared toward self-centeredness. We are constantly bombarded by advertising everywhere we go as well as in our homes telling us whatever we have is not good enough - we always need more or something else to fulfill our lives and make us happy.
Dan King lives in Florida and while starting a blog online he began to investigate the issue of poverty. That led him to several organizations that exist to combat poverty in the world. That research and blog writing led him to an organization called Five Talents. Through that organization he went on a 2 week trip to Africa as their Chaplain and Teacher. This book is about his experiences and insights into the culture and people of Africa. It is a very powerful book filled with spiritual and cultural surprises and revelations. He describes how the African landscape drew him closer to God and how the people of Africa have one thing that keeps them living from day to day in the face of tremendous poverty - HOPE.
Mr. King also gives practical advise how Christians can start to change the world from where they live.
It does not take long to read this little book. It is filled with pictures from his trip and the pictures themselves are worth the price of the book.
Many churches have started organizing mission trips to places like Russia and Romania and other foreign countries. Mr. King was not on his trip through a church but through the Five Talents organization which helps people around the world with microloans to start their own businesses. These microloans allow the people to make money to pay back the loan (usually less than $100.00) and provide for their families.
As I read Mr. King's book I could not help but think about The Hole in Our Gosepel by Richard Stearns - another book about poverty that I reviewed before.
Jesus said "The poor you will have with you always." I think God puts the poor here so that we, who have much more than we need, can minister to them with our time, talents and money. I know I need to address this issue more than I have. Mr. King also points out how even though these people in Africa have practically nothing, they are always ready to help someone out in need - to do whatever they can.
The issue of child soldiers and Sex exploitation are also mentioned.
This little book will make you think. It will challenge your faith. James said, "Show me your faith without your works and I'll show you my faith by my works" Also "Faith without works is dead."
Christians are called to love all men. This book will encourage you to demonstrate your love by your actions. I highly recommend this book.
[[ASIN:B005UDPQ2O The Unlikely Missionary: From Pew-Warmer to Poverty-Fighter (BibleDude.net)]]