Reflection: International Development from a Christian Perspective
Reflection: International Development from a Christian Perspective
WCIU Journal: Community and Societal Development Topic
March 16, 2023
by Naomy Rono, WCIU student
According to several authors in the edited book, International Development from Kingdom Perspective, international development does not only focus on economic growth and material prosperity but also on the flourishing of humankind (Butare 2010, 12, 46, 79). The society at large develops by promoting community building and spiritual growth. In the same line of thought, my understanding is that the concept of international development is a process of creating sustainable change that promotes human dignity, alleviates poverty, and promotes justice and equality. It involves working with local communities to identify their needs and assets, and then creating solutions that build on those assets to promote long-term growth and development. International development should be grounded in a deep understanding of the cultural and spiritual context in which it takes place. This directly calls for development practitioners to work alongside local communities as equal partners. Christian faith plays a vital role in international development by inspiring people to love and serve others, and by providing a framework for ethical decision making.
In the same manner, biblical references contribute to this perspective by highlighting how international development addresses both material and spiritual needs.
Isaiah 58:6-12: This passage emphasizes the importance of social justice and caring for the poor and oppressed. It also highlights the spiritual benefits of serving others.
Micah 6:8 describes the kind of life that God desires for his people: to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with God. This can be applied to international development by emphasizing the importance of fairness, compassion, and humility in our efforts to help others.
Luke 4:18-19: Jesus announces his mission to preach good news to the poor, proclaim freedom for prisoners, recovery of sight for the blind, and to set the oppressed free. This can be seen as a call to action for Christians to work for social and economic justice, and to promote human dignity and well-being.
James 2:14-17 also emphasizes the importance of putting faith into action by caring for the needs of others. It reminds us that true faith is demonstrated through works of compassion and justice.
Christian development organizations prioritize the holistic needs of individuals and communities by addressing the root causes of poverty and inequality. They also focus on empowering local communities and building sustainable institutions that can promote long-term development. In addition, Christian development organizations approach international development with a sense of stewardship, recognizing that all resources come from God and must be used wisely and ethically. This includes ensuring transparency, accountability, and good governance in all development activities. International development from a Christian perspective is motivated by a sense of compassion and love for others, rooted in the belief that all people are created in the image of God and deserve to live with dignity and hope.
Reference
Butare, James, ed. International Development from a Kingdom Perspective. Pasadena: WCIU Press, 2010.