cover image When We Stand: The Power of Seeking Justice Together

When We Stand: The Power of Seeking Justice Together

Terence Lester. IVP, $16 trade paper (224p) ISBN 978-0-8308-3178-4

Christian minister and activist Lester (I See You) issues a fiery call to action for those concerned about the rise of social injustice. Writing in a conversational tone, Lester strings together inspirational passages from the Bible, Martin Luther King Jr.’s speeches, and quotes from articles and documentaries that invite readers to “make a long-term commitment to live according to God’s call for us to come alongside others.” Social media, he writes, can make the average person “feel overwhelmed by the sheer extent and constant reminders of injustice,” and dealing with it requires individuals to shed the “apathy creeping in from... social media trauma” and help eradicate injustice by becoming a mentor, volunteering for the underserved, or donating to aid organizations. Ten steps to making this commitment are listed, among them “Know Your Worth” by understanding how one’s individual impact makes a difference, “Get Out of Your Bubble” through “sharing [one’s] own resources,” and “Pursue Something Real” by redirecting efforts of personal achievement toward community betterment. Readers looking to make a difference but unclear about how to begin would do well to start here. (May)