Make Poverty History & the ONE campain

Many of you, I'm sure, have signed the ONE campaign letter to encourage the US and the other G8 Countries to make a difference in poverty across the world. If you haven't yet, please check out the website One: The Campaign to Make Poverty History.

Many Christian leaders along with a wide variety of other concerned people have put pressure on these countries to help "the least of these." The Finance Ministers of the G8 - the world’s eight wealthiest countries- have just agreed to forgive $40 BILLION in debt from these poorest countries! This wonderful news will help bring a new day of hope for millions of the poorest people on our planet.

            I’d encourage you to do two more things.  First send thanks to President Bush and other G8 leaders for this bold move of compassion.  Second, if you have not done so already go the www.one.org website and click the button on the upper left corner “Ask President Bush to fight poverty” and add your name to long list of those who are asking our President to continue his bold and courageous effort to help us serve the least of these.

            Defending the disadvantaged is a biblical responsibility of leadership. God commended King Josiah for doing this, and even extended his reign because of his compassion: “ He defended the cause of the poor and needy, and so all went well. Is that not what it means to know me?" declares the Lord. Jeremiah 22:16 (NIV) Psalm 140:12 (Mes) says “I know that you, God, are on the side of victims, that you care for the rights of the poor.”

            Now we need to continue to pray for the G8 summit as they consider the other key issues related to the poor and those hurting from preventable diseases.  The Bible commands us to "Speak up for people who cannot speak for themselves. Protect the rights of all who are helpless.” Proverbs 31:8 (TEV)

Blessings to you all!

Joanne