Saturday, October 24, 2009

Sojourners Magazine

Periodicals are not my favorite type of media because I frankly find it hard to keep up with them. There are already so many things to do without adding to the list. But Sojourners magazine is worth it. They have challenging articles on social justice issues with a decidedly Christian perspective.

In my experience, at least some who embrace or are lumped under the label of “progressive Christian” do not recognize the divinity of Jesus, seem to borrow greatly from other faiths, and/or view Jesus as simply a wise teacher. That is certainly fine for them, but personally that is not quite my cup of tea. I think Jesus was more than just a nice guy or even a prophet. I’m admittedly more “conservative” and “traditional” in that way. As a result, I am sometimes wary of writers and writings that get placed under the “progressive Christian” label. However, Sojourners has a perspective that is “Christian” in the traditional theological sense of the term. Their articles reference Scripture to analyze various social issues. The cover story this month involves biblical insights in favor of health care reform under the title “Lord, When Did We See You Sick?” The current issue also has great articles on building a sustainable peace in Afghanistan and on George Schultz’s vision to eradicate nuclear weapons.

To me, another appealing aspect of Sojourners is that it is ecumenical. The writers and the people featured come from a variety of Christian faith traditions. The magazine features insights from Catholics, Evangelicals, Methodists, nondenominational Christians, and Mennonites, among others.

Sojourners magazine is published 11 times a year. It is also available on-line at the link below.

http://www.sojo.net/index.cfm?action=magazine.home

Luke 14:13-14 (New American Standard Bible)


"But when you give a reception, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed, since they do not have the means to repay you; for you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."


Matthew 5:9 (New American Standard Bible)


"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.



Deuteronomy 15:7-8 (New American Standard Bible)


"If there is a poor man with you, one of your brothers, in any of your towns in your land which the LORD your God is giving you, you shall not harden your heart, nor close your hand from your poor brother; but you shall freely open your hand to him, and shall generously lend him sufficient for his need in whatever he lacks.”

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