Week One: Questions/"Good news to the Poor"

Here are some questions to ponder (and respond to if you feel so moved):

(1) Regarding Wesley's "Rules": What rules are still relevant for us today? What "rules" would we add?

(2) "Do No Harm" has global implications. Our choices impact others in ways we might not even imagine (see the example in our book about the ill-constructed stairway).

(3) Social Holiness/Justice fits into the "Do No Harm" category: In that we can participate or subvert cultural injustices depending on choices we make?

Yesterday I had a discussion with Peaks Island resident Margo regarding the plight of the Oglala Souix Indians on reservations in South Dakota, many of whom must make the decision between heat and food. Pine Ridge Reservation residents experience among the lowest life expectancy in the US (50 years).

• Recent reports vary but many point out that the median income on the Pine Ridge Reservation is approximately $2,600 to $3,500 per year.
  
  
• The unemployment rate on Pine Ridge is said to be approximately 83-85% and can be higher during the winter months when travel is difficult or often impossible.
  
  
• According to 2006 resources, about 97% of the population lives below Federal poverty levels.
  

(From "Life and Conditions on the Pine Ridge Reservation" http://www.linkcenterfoundation.org/id24.html)

Early in his ministry, Jesus said, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me; he has anointed me to tell the good news to the poor. He has sent me to announce release to the prisoners and recovery of sight to the blind, to set oppressed people free" Luke 4:18.

"Do no harm" includes seeking to NOT participate in systems that promote poverty and oppress. How can we do this (and how are we doing this) as individuals and as a church community (followers/disciples/students of Christ)?