Inequitable Globalization
How can the world hear or believe our message of God’s love when we are spending:
- $8 billion annually on cosmetics in the US
- $11 billion annually on ice cream in Europe
- $17 billion annually on pet food in Europe and the US
- $35 billion annually on business entertainment in Japan
- $105 billion annually on alcoholic drinks in Europe
- $780 billion annually on the world’s militaries
While at the same time:
- Basic education for the world would cost $6 billion
- Installation of water and sanitation for the world would cost $9 billion
- Basic health care and nutrition would cost $13 billion
The statistics above are convicting. It would seem they could be a core motivator for this radical Islamic Jihad, this festering Palestinian anger, this growing Middle East Hezbollah threat, as well as the arrival of two Russia bombers at a Venezuelan air base this week. Could this imbalance provoke such growing mistrust, jealousy, and heightened risk of conflict? Bush’s past shock-and-awe bravado only further provoked the international community. It raises an important question; how long can we over-consume while appearing so calloused to the rest of the world? The growing threats only increases our need for weapons leaving even less resources to address this provocative imbalance. Our current path doesn’t appear sustainable.
Could that be why we are seeing such a focus on social justice issues (in society and in church)? Could that be why Obama’s message of change is resonating with so many? We seem to be sensing the injustice and the need to address it, yet nobody has provided the leadership needed to rally the necessary sacrifice.
It raises another provoking question: has Jesus become merely a brand, an identity, or a social connection instead of the life transforming influence that He claimed to be?
Just as the message of Christ became a catalyst in the fight against slavery, it would seem the same message should be leading on this issue as well. It appears we are beginning to understand, as research reveals, the unchurched are searching for congregations who are reaching out and sacrificing for their communities. There are also mega church pastors choosing to live in small unassuming homes, and a “Junky Car Club” has been formed to celebrate those who are pulling back from all the consumption. Check it out: www.junkycarclub.com
The church is now beginning to peek outside its walls and discover a fresh missional approach to ministry…could it be that we have finally seen enough imbalance?
Next week we’ll explore the the key attributes of an incarnational/missional ministry.
Source: http://www.learningpartnership.org/resources/facts/globalization
Hmmmm…Do you think it’s a myth that if all the world’s wealth was redistributed it would end up the same places again in the hands of those who are motivated and educated/willing to be educated? I’m just wondering, I don’t really know the answer. Also, why did Jesus say that the poor would always be with us…I don’t think that means we shouldn’t give of what we have…way more than what we do…but what do you think He meant? My view of the poor has grown/broadened/changed as Luke shares experiences from the emergency room environment. The people that are frequent fliers in the ER for little more than pain killers seem to have a mental issue that holds them in their current state of desperation. They need help/ and hope…but if you gave them money, it wouldn’t last long. They work the system to the extreme (like coming in to a nice hospital for a particular meal they like each week) and have little motivation to work or pay for services given. But this is in America…your talking about global issues…which I don’t have grasp on at all.
Ann
Well said, Ed ! [So we're featuring your post this morning.]
Thanks for doing all you’re doing.
-Neil
I’ve heard some good things about this blog. Remember to balance the pics with the text tho. cheers!
I agree with your conviction that Americans need to seriously rethink the way we spend money in light of global circumstances. Numbers like those you provided break my heart. Jesus said we’d always have the poor, but He also said that to whom much was given, much would be required.
I do not, however, agree that our consumerism has nearly as much to do with radical Islam’s attacks on western society as many people would say. It’s a convenient excuse, and seems like an insightful idea, but it’s relatively unfounded. Those people breed hate into their young people; they don’t need an excuse or a reason. Hate is blinding.
There’s a great organization called Honest Reporting (.com) who released a documentary a couple years ago called Obsession (obsessionthemovie.com). It’s a stunning, honest look at radical Islam (that should be watched with eyes on eternity so we can pray for these people instead of giving in to hate ourselves).
Ed,
I hate to be a cynic, but there is absolutely no possible way those numbers about what it would cost to bring basic education, water, etc. to all in the world are correct. For example, If we assume that 5 billion people already have basic education (likely an extremely high number), that leaves less than $6 per person to provide basic education to the remaining one billion plus.
I’m glad somone brought up the fact that Jesus said we will always have the poor with us. The reason I find this interesting is because, poverty is such a relative thing. Someone making $18,000 in this country is poor by our standards but, incredibly wealthy by the standards of sub-saharan Africa. Similarly, someone making 60k may look poor next Dick Syron (former Freddie Mac chairman who received compensation of 38 million for his “work” over the past several years). As a side note, since we’re talking numbers, Freddie Mac holds a portfolio of mortgages and mortgage backed securities totaling just under 800 billion. Additionaly, Freddie Mac along with Fannie Mae own or guarantee 5.2 trillion worth of mortgages, close to half the U.S. mortgage market (just to confuse you with more big numbers
.
I guess, ultimately, my point is that we should be careful who shapes our views on issues. Globalization has certainly brought problems with it, but it has also brought great developments. True, without gloabalization, we would likely not have such huge inequalities in wealth. The reason however would be that we’d all be closer to the bottom, not the other way around. Just a few random thoughts.
Lex,
Thanks for your provocative thoughts. I’ve always enjoyed your own blog content.
I did watch the trailer for obsessionthemovie.com. And yes it sure is provocative and sobering. I can see why you would suggest hate is blinding. I believe it is as well.
However, I don’t believe people simply wake up thinking about unprovoked hate. My experiences as a parent and supervisor just doesn’t support such an assertion. My father always said, “Every obnoxious act is a cry for help.” My 30 years of parenting, church, and business experience supports that. People act out of their own pain.
Our political struggle here in the US is driven primarily by the issue of fairness and a reasonable gap between the rich and poor (a fairness issue to most). Communism was driven by the same core issue and believed the only route to fairness was state ownership of resources. Of course the communists learned there must be competition and personal gain to drive innovation and development. Yet, that personal gain selfishly unrestrained results in a few very rich people and resulting unrest most times. Think radical labor unions etc. We’ve had tires slashed, steel bearings sling shotted at our men on job sites, and windshields broken in our trucks through the years. Why, people perceived their economic future was threatened. Of course, their response isn’t honorable or justified. But fear causes obnoxious acts many times.
There must be a reason the Bible mentions money 112 times, riches 96, jealous/jealousy/envy 64, and yes hate 73. The New testament is all about love. And love doesn’t seek it’s own.
I think God’s ideal is a competitive culture that drives people to grow, create, and multiply their talent. But not for their own personal gain, but for the Kingdom and God’s glory. That gain is then voluntarily given to those in need. By a spirit of Christ inspired love. And, given with oversight and mentoring that not only supports hurting people but equips them to care for themselves.
When we as Christians fail to do so our faith is a sounding brass and a tinkling cymbal. And, governments must take it on themselves to maintain order and take care of the poor as best they can to minimize unrest.
That being said, I’m a conservative Republican and a strong supporter of a free enterprise system. But without Christ and generosity I question if it can work well.
Ann,
I’m sorry I’m so slow in responding. I’ve heard the redistribute thought before. And, I would think it to be the most likely outcome.
However, to be the most talented or hard working isn’t the complete story. To whom much is given much is expected. Now, I’m sure not wise enough to know just what that means when millions make $1/day but it deserves some thought it would seem.
Regarding the freeloaders at the hospital or elsewhere, they need to be held accountable of course. That’s why bureaucratic government programs do not work well. There is little motive to hold them accountable. And in addition, many times the bureaucrats are as lazy and corrupt as the freeloaders.
I sense the only real solution is what I wrote to Lex in the comment above. It takes selfless people who see themselves as Pilgrims passing through this life and are willing to bring everyone along with them who is willing to do their best to use their talent.
Take a look.
Ryan,
Hey there brother…yea the numbers do seem low but check out the source for the statistics.
http://www.learningpartnership.org/en/about/board
You’ll find it is a global organization with representatives from many of the third world countries. But even if the numbers are understated, I don’t think it changes the issue much.
Yes rich and poor are quite relative in our eyes. But are they in God’s? Now of course I’m living with a much higher standard of living than necessary so I’m not sure just how to respond myself. And even if I did know for sure, I question if I have the grace to act as I maybe should. But, that shouldn’t keep us from a healthy dialog on these kind of subjects…right?
I’m in full agreement regarding globalization raising every bodies boat as suggested. That wasn’t the question or issue though. It does just like capitalism, done well in the US, raises everybody’s boat here. However, domestically or globally, greed and excessive inequities will result in reactions which arrests the rising tide for everyone. Yet even if it didn’t, as Christians, it seems we have a responsibility to love and share with others the wealth we are blessed with at some level…right
Hey Neal and IndyChristian,
Your welcome and thanks for featuring me…I’m honored.
Warmly,
Ed
Ed,
Stumbled upon your blog. And I’ve never replied to a post or a blog-ever. Not sure why I’m compelled to do so this time; but here it goes…
I am essentially a reformed PCA (Presbyterian Churches of America) member and have been for the last 20 years (grew up in a highly fundamentalist church). I also teach in a christian private school (Bible).
I have over the last 2 to 3 years been fascinated by the emerging movement. I was introduced to it by Don Miller in Blue Like Jazz. I then read the rest of his collection of books and enjoyed all of them tremendously; most refreshing read I have experienced in a long time. My other research (not the best word) into other leaders and authors has given me an outlook on this movement and ideas and on many levels I am excited and convicted- especially by the “missional” mindedness.
But I have also become concerned that this movement is making Jesus out to be no more than another Ghandi or Mother Teresa. There is so much emphasis on action and following (which our churches so much need), but so little on belief and theology (which this generation also needs). I fear we are adding to the number of those who did “much in the name of Jesus”, yet “He does not know them.” Jesus said much about doing, but He also said much about repentance and belief (repentance was the cornerstone of His message).
I have a great appreciation for what many in the emerging community are adding to an otherwise cold and uncaring church- and I do not say that lightly, but if we do not worship (and serve) in truth we are only worshiping an idol we have created in the name of Jesus.
“Love Jesus and love people”; I love the sound of it. I just fear it will ultimately be just as empty to the cause of the Kingdom as “just say this prayer and all will be well” has been.
Thanks for letting me put my thoughts to paper.
Michael
Mr Flint,
Wow…nice work for your first blog comment. It wasn’t quite so painful after all, huh?
You should comment more often. You’ve captured the struggle as well as any I’ve read. Many appreciate and share your enthusiasm and concern. You may have heard the term “Christ Follower” now used by many instead of Christian. They are as disturbed by the emptiness to the cause of the Kingdom as you’ve expressed. They do not want to be counted with those cold and uncaring churches you mentioned.
The church at large seems to be on a journey to figure out how to inspire both a “broken spirit and contrite heart”…a repentant heart…as well as a deep sense for mission and personal sacrifice. Of course those two should be inseparable but somehow many have found ways to do just that.
I’m posting on the six elements for “Missional Resurgence” from Al Hirsch’s book “The Forgotten Ways”. Al’s content seems to capture both sides of this issue as well as the organizational dynamics so important to sustain it.
I would really appreciate your thoughts.
Thanks for commenting.
Ed