There is a small group Bible study in our church who call themselves "Saved to Share".  Since forming, they have seen faith and social justice as being closely related, not in opposition to each other (as is the oft stated yet unsound  view of Glenn Beck.)  STS has most recently taken on the issue of clean water.  The fact is, 1/8 of the world's population has no access to fresh water.  This effects so much more than drinking; the bigger concern is sanitation.  According to water.org, 36% of the world's population has no regular access to a toilet.  STS is doing something about it by raising money to have a well dug in the African country of Mali.

I was asked to emcee their most recent event; a spaghetti dinner and hymn sing at our church in Bridgton, Maine.  Even though it was a snowy night, there were about 75 people in attendance.  The food was delicious and plentiful.  Then, when the tables were cleared, it was time to start the hymn sing.  First, though, I told the audience that my daughter, Rose, would be doing a juggling routine to a song that is definitely NOT a hymn:  "The Devil is Bad" by the W's.  www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLO2-_emvDY  (Hear the song here).  Rose was one club drop short of perfection, and when she got up on the balance board and juggled machetes, then came off of the board and went into a full split still juggling them, the crowd loved it!  Yes. it's her home crowd, but it has been a while since she has performed there, and they were sincerely surprised with how good she has gotten.

After turning the song leading over to our assistant pastor, Debbie, I was able to relax with my wife, Sue, and our good friends the Bourques.  Then, toward the end, I came back up and did my "Around the World" routine, which speaks to world hunger and poverty through juggling.  Hard to picture, but it works.  It's one of my favorites.

Finally, as Pastor Mike came up to close us in prayer, he first announced that the dinner had raised $1000 toward the well.  I don't care about those who say social justice issues are not part of the Gospel.  My Bible says that anyone who gives water to a thirsty person in Jesus name will be remembered on the day of judgment.  Well done, STS.  You are truly good and faithful servants.