Gary A. Haugen, Just Courage: God’s Great Expedition for the Restless Christian. IVP Books, 2008.
Related volume: Haugen, The Good News About Injustice
Referenced in: Theological and Philosophical Foundations of Social Ministry
LifeandLeadership.com Summary
This is an excellent introduction to the real and pervasive social evils that exist internationally, and a call to be courageous in seeking justice for those who would remain in the clutches of that evil outside our intervention (e.g. the 27 million victims of human trafficking). Haugen believes there is something innate in every normal human being that wants to be involved in this. He says, “Courage – the power to do the right thing even when it is scary and hard – resonates deeply with the original shape of our soul.” (103) This book is especially helpful for those who may be reevaluating their life call, and feel prompted to get involved in justice. It is also good for anyone who needs a nudge to a greater social conscience.
From the Publisher
“There must be more to the Christian life than this—more than church each Sunday and waving to my neighbors and giving some clothes to Goodwill when I go through my closet each spring.”
These aren’t bad things, of course. But they’re safe and comfortable and easy. And there’s a reason they’re not satisfying your desire for something more significant and meaningful—we’re created by God for adventure.
International Justice Mission president Gary Haugen has found that engaging in the fight for justice is the most deeply satisfying way of life. This book shows how we too can be a part of God’s great expedition.
About the Author
Gary A. Haugen is president and CEO of International Justice Mission (IJM), a human rights organization based in Washington, D.C. Prior to founding IJM, he worked in the civil rights division of the U.S. Department of Justice and was director of the United Nations genocide investigation in Rwanda.