Ethnos Does Justice

Among Ethnos, we take seriously the Bible's call to "do justice" by caring for the poor, orphans and widows. We understand justice as our work in repairing the very fabric of how God intended things should be, in a sense, we are 'agents' of redemption. This restoring action isn't done necessarily in a spirit of charity where "we" give simply because "they" don't have, but should be a part of our lives marked by living in a spirit of restoration and a desire for reconciliation.

Justice is more than mere social action; it is repairing brokenness in all areas of life: social, political, economic, racial, cultural, physical, emotional, and spiritual. When we see that this work of restoring order out of chaos reaches into all areas of life, then we see that our work is as multi-faceted as the need itself. Living out justice can mean helping children outside our borders to be educated, fed, clothed and loved, as well as helping here at home to be fed, clothed and loved.

Doing justice means that we care for and visit the poor in their affliction, never intending to leave them there; instead we work to find or provide them with gainful employment, housing, and ultimately self-sustainability. Doing justice might mean teaching adults to read, giving food and clothes to seniors and homeless (did you know that Jesus was homeless?) who have nothing, or providing for the material and emotional needs of anyone in need. We do these things in a spirit of loving restoration. This is how Ethnos lives for justice in this world. We will not settle for mere talk, we want to be a part of measurable change among the locally and globally underprivileged, marginalized, and oppressed.

Will You do Justice?

What you can do: Consider giving your financial resources in support of ministries that seek justice in Portland and beyond (Visible Grace, Northwest Children's Outreach, Passion4People, etc.)? How about committing to support and be a part of local initiatives in Portland such as Nightstrike, Portland Rescue Mission, etc? Will you consider consuming less, and use that money to share with and serve with those in need (Advent Conspiracy)?


Resources

Challenge of Jesus, The - N.T. Wright

Framework For Understanding Poverty, A - Ruby K. Payne

Good News About Injustice - Gary Haugen

Gospel and Our Culture Network, The

International Justice Mission

Peace Child - Don Richardson

Shaping of Things to Come, The - Frost and Hirsch

Sojourners

Treasure In Clay Jars - Lois Y. Barrett et al