John Steward's From Genocide to Generosity: Hatred Heals on Rwanda's Hills is the most important contribution to mission studies in 2015. Steward, who served in Rwanda with World Vision in 1997, where he was engaged in
reconciliation activities and programs in the aftermath of the 1994
genocide, has engaged in mission trips in the area since then. From Genocide to Generosity shares some of the essential insights and lessons learned from this engagement, within the Church and
beyond, and gives voice to local staff and friends in the ministry of
reconciliation by narrating their experiences and contribution. It provides a number of working programs that encourage evangelical transformations and healing between Tutsis and Hutus -- like workshops on personal
development, healing the wounds of ethnic conflict, healing of memories
and community restorative justice. From Genocide to Generosity is ultimately the story of Christian hope -- that where there has been trauma there can become generosity, that enables even more transformation and healing.One of the greatest take-aways for readers is that From Genocide to Generosity keeps its focus constantly on the Christian reconciliation within communities. This book is a challenge for churches and for Christians to embody the Gospel of reconciliation in tangible ways -- ways, ultimately, that are authentic evangelical practices. This book, if nothing else, helps Christians to think faithfully about how we live in our world of brokenness and estrangement.
The book also highlights the significance of transformation through the use of a number of intentional, best-practice activities, education programs and resources that seek to demonstrate what genuine forgiveness looks like. A number of these programs are based on traditional approaches to healing and community peace building, and use indigenous art forms in communication.
In short, this book bears witness to the power of Christ's Gospel in a world crying out for healing -- both physical and spiritual -- and provides ways practically to respond to the reconciliation needs of Church and society, which are relevant for all Christians, including those of us who live in the West. Even in America.
_________________
I received a free copy of this book from the Speakeasy Bloggers program in exchange for my honest review here.