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On Love & Mercy: A Social Justice Devotional
A hopeful and Christ-centered devotional for Christians who know social justice to be a good and holy endeavor.On Love and Mercy is a 60-day devotional that invites readers to expand their vision of both personal faith in God and the redemptive and saving work of social action. Breaking down the premise that Christians must choose between being either socially conscience or theologically sound, author Stephen Mattson offers the hopeful message that Jesus--and Christianity--is both. Each day's entry offers Christians who long to see justice and equity within society with a much-needed source of affirmation, solidarity, and encouragement. These heart-felt devotions bring readers hope and encouragement to embrace social justice as the Christ-like discipline that it always was and is meant to be. On Love and Mercy validates social justice practices within the Christian faith by centering the example of Jesus as the ultimate standard. Although our religion will fail us, Jesus never will. He walks alongside us in living out God's commands us to love our neighbors to the best of our ability. Step into this journey and discover anew what it means to be devoted to Jesus and justice.
- GenresReligion
239 pages, Hardcover
Published November 9, 2021
45 people are currently reading
130 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
October 6, 2021
There are a lot of people who are coming to a realization that evangelical Christianity has to be different. More than ever, I am finding people from evangelical backgrounds who are clinging to faith but are no longer sure how to express it or define it or work it out. They’re moving toward activism but aren’t sure how to engage or how to be a blessing. If that sounds like you, On Love and Mercy should be your starting point. Mattson offers sixty days of devotions that are simple and clear. A Scripture, four or five paragraphs of reflection, a question for meditation, and a prayer. Five minutes a day to orient your thoughts toward justice. It’s a small but transformative way to change.
Mattson’s topics cover the spectrum of social justice issues. It’s not a book about racial justice only, but extends the umbrella to any oppressed people group, inviting readers to fight for the marginalized and stand in solidarity with the minority. That breadth of scope keeps him from going too deep on any one topic, but is useful in helping readers expand their perception of social justice beyond whatever facet drew them to a book on social justice. Mattson’s voice is clear, compelling, and engaging. He gets to the point quickly, makes his statement powerfully, and moves on.
Books like this are ones I usually read straight through. It’s a 60-day devotional, but I’m reading for review. I have to say that the book loses something if you use it that way. On Love and Mercy is intended to be like a conversation with a friend. I read half the book, decided it wasn’t working, so went back—and I did have to double up to finish this review by the book’s release date—and read the book how it was intended. It made all the difference. You’ll get out of this devotional what you put into it. Take it seriously, truly listen to Mattson’s words, and it’ll change you.
On Love and Mercy keeps things simple and exhortative. That’s difficult on one level because he’s dealing with complex and deep-rooted issues. There isn’t space to deal with the complexity. The result is that there’s more than enough for critics to pick and poke and prod and kill it by death of a thousand cuts. He should have done more here or there or this seems underrepresented or misrepresented or whatever. Because of the format Mattson writes, there’s no argument or apologetic, no development of ideas or progression of thought. He simply lays it all out for you to either agree with or disagree with. This sounds like it’s a criticism, but I’m trying to get at is the format of a devotional. You don’t come to a devotional to argue with it. Mattson resists the urge to defend his thoughts, rebut criticisms, or argue points. If you agree, great, listen and be encouraged. This isn’t a book that’ll convince someone that social justice is an integral part of the Gospel. But if you’ve been convinced and don’t know where to go now, On Love and Mercy is one of the most valuable books you could have.
Mattson’s topics cover the spectrum of social justice issues. It’s not a book about racial justice only, but extends the umbrella to any oppressed people group, inviting readers to fight for the marginalized and stand in solidarity with the minority. That breadth of scope keeps him from going too deep on any one topic, but is useful in helping readers expand their perception of social justice beyond whatever facet drew them to a book on social justice. Mattson’s voice is clear, compelling, and engaging. He gets to the point quickly, makes his statement powerfully, and moves on.
Books like this are ones I usually read straight through. It’s a 60-day devotional, but I’m reading for review. I have to say that the book loses something if you use it that way. On Love and Mercy is intended to be like a conversation with a friend. I read half the book, decided it wasn’t working, so went back—and I did have to double up to finish this review by the book’s release date—and read the book how it was intended. It made all the difference. You’ll get out of this devotional what you put into it. Take it seriously, truly listen to Mattson’s words, and it’ll change you.
On Love and Mercy keeps things simple and exhortative. That’s difficult on one level because he’s dealing with complex and deep-rooted issues. There isn’t space to deal with the complexity. The result is that there’s more than enough for critics to pick and poke and prod and kill it by death of a thousand cuts. He should have done more here or there or this seems underrepresented or misrepresented or whatever. Because of the format Mattson writes, there’s no argument or apologetic, no development of ideas or progression of thought. He simply lays it all out for you to either agree with or disagree with. This sounds like it’s a criticism, but I’m trying to get at is the format of a devotional. You don’t come to a devotional to argue with it. Mattson resists the urge to defend his thoughts, rebut criticisms, or argue points. If you agree, great, listen and be encouraged. This isn’t a book that’ll convince someone that social justice is an integral part of the Gospel. But if you’ve been convinced and don’t know where to go now, On Love and Mercy is one of the most valuable books you could have.
September 29, 2021
This is a very thought-provoking book of devotional readings. The devotionals are easy to read, but not a quick read. Often we can compartmentalize our reading of scriptures and apply verses in a limited fashion. Mattson does a great job of helping the reader to consider verses in a different light. He makes God, Jesus, and people more important than issues. The term "social justice" has become such a hot button in today's culture, and it shouldn't be. I am grateful for resources such as this that help me examine my own heart in light of the scriptures and the example of Jesus.
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 22, 2021
Mattson-- who has long been a strong and stable voice in the wilderness of American Christianity-- has written a thought-provoking, powerful, inclusive devotional, backed thoroughly with scripture and intended to lead readers into a deeper understanding of God's heart. This collection of 60 devotions is both a challenge and a comfort. Readers will return to it over and over and find new wisdom each time.
September 1, 2021
Stephen's book is an amazing foray into the mind of God as it relates to our responsibility to and care of the people He has created.
Whether you are a strong proponent, curious or totally unaware of what God requires of His followers, this is easy to read and comprehend. It has certainly been an eye-opener for me.
It is set up as a devotional (it welcomes a lot of pondering) but I personally could not put it down.
An A+ winner!
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Whether you are a strong proponent, curious or totally unaware of what God requires of His followers, this is easy to read and comprehend. It has certainly been an eye-opener for me.
It is set up as a devotional (it welcomes a lot of pondering) but I personally could not put it down.
An A+ winner!
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 4, 2023
One of the better devotionals I’ve ever worked through.
September 6, 2021
On Love and Mercy is an uplifting daily devotional that explores the answer to this question: What does it mean to be a Christian?
There are so many different understandings and descriptions of Christian life. Should I belong to a certain church? Vote a certain way? Adhere to specific doctrines? Practice certain rituals? Study a specific version of the Bible?
This book draws the reader’s focus back to what really matters: Jesus Christ, whose life and ministry on earth repeatedly showed us how to live.
Christ not only said, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” He also lived that way. He showed us how to right what is wrong, defend the truth, and love people who are outcasts—who exist on the margins of society.
This thoughtful book of devotions pulls us back to the Savior. It draws our attention to His examples of mercy, kindness, inclusion, and love. For those like me who seek to cut through the noise of conflicting doctrines and loyalties, these clear devotions bless each day with a sample of Christ’s own words and actions.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a free and honest review.
There are so many different understandings and descriptions of Christian life. Should I belong to a certain church? Vote a certain way? Adhere to specific doctrines? Practice certain rituals? Study a specific version of the Bible?
This book draws the reader’s focus back to what really matters: Jesus Christ, whose life and ministry on earth repeatedly showed us how to live.
Christ not only said, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” He also lived that way. He showed us how to right what is wrong, defend the truth, and love people who are outcasts—who exist on the margins of society.
This thoughtful book of devotions pulls us back to the Savior. It draws our attention to His examples of mercy, kindness, inclusion, and love. For those like me who seek to cut through the noise of conflicting doctrines and loyalties, these clear devotions bless each day with a sample of Christ’s own words and actions.
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a free and honest review.
September 14, 2021
This is formatted as a 60-day devotional, but honestly, there is so much depth to each daily reading, that several days, if not a full week, could easily be spent reflecting on and digesting the material. Stephen starts off with a discussion of the term, social justice, and defines, for purposes of this devotional, the term to mean, “By definition, the word ‘social’ means relating to society or its organization. The word ‘justice’ means the quality of being just, impartial, or fair. Simply put, and for the purpose of this devotional, the definition we’ll use for the term ‘social justice’ is simply this: justice within a society.”
From there we are taken on a challenging, stretching, and reflective journey through many elements of social justice. Stephen uses scripture to guide us along the journey, and each day wraps up with a thoughtful meditation and prayer. If you are looking to stay comfortable, this may not be the devotional for you. But, if you are looking to understand this issue further, to grow, to stretch, to be humbled, especially as it relates to being a Christ follower, then I would highly recommend this as a tool in your journey.
At the half-way mark through the devotional (Day 30: Acquire Wisdom, Be a Scholar of Historical Truth), Stephen has a list of historical events to be researched. They are listed by date and place. Of the 16 listed, by sight, I only recognized three: Tulsa (only learned about this within the last year), Hiroshima and Nagasaki. I have homework to do.
Whether you are curious, just starting to explore the idea of social justice, or have been on the journey for some time, this devotional has something for you. I encourage you to get a copy of On Love & Mercy and embark on the journey. Maybe grab a few others to join you. Now, I’ve got to get started on that homework.
*I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
From there we are taken on a challenging, stretching, and reflective journey through many elements of social justice. Stephen uses scripture to guide us along the journey, and each day wraps up with a thoughtful meditation and prayer. If you are looking to stay comfortable, this may not be the devotional for you. But, if you are looking to understand this issue further, to grow, to stretch, to be humbled, especially as it relates to being a Christ follower, then I would highly recommend this as a tool in your journey.
At the half-way mark through the devotional (Day 30: Acquire Wisdom, Be a Scholar of Historical Truth), Stephen has a list of historical events to be researched. They are listed by date and place. Of the 16 listed, by sight, I only recognized three: Tulsa (only learned about this within the last year), Hiroshima and Nagasaki. I have homework to do.
Whether you are curious, just starting to explore the idea of social justice, or have been on the journey for some time, this devotional has something for you. I encourage you to get a copy of On Love & Mercy and embark on the journey. Maybe grab a few others to join you. Now, I’ve got to get started on that homework.
*I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.*
December 10, 2021
Stephen Mattson’s “On Love and Mercy: A Social Justice Devotional” offers two months’ worth of daily devotions on the topic of Social Justice and associated issues.
Readers of this devotional volume will appreciate the Introduction and first 15 days, which provide an orientation to a biblical grounds for engagement in social justice work and advocacy.
Devotions focused on a wider variety specific justice issues such as ableism, environmentalism, and criminal justice reform form the bulk of the devotional’s remaining materials, and may challenge some readers in areas of unrecognized bias or apathy.
Included meditations and prayers at the end of each entry are good ways to carry the conversation beyond the couple of pages of daily reflection, and perhaps suggest that this work might act as a good resource for families and church small groups.
The state of public discourse in the United States makes this work a timely release, and its nature as a devotional is properly primed for personal and small group church usage. Such is important as many churches find themselves confronting the various narratives that members receive from news sources, social media, and other spheres on influence. Practical discussion grounded in biblical wisdom is needed for churches to provide clarity on what are proper stances for those who claim the scriptures as their authority.
One small area of concern may be the devotional’s title, which could limit the work’s potential reach amongst individuals who view “social justice” as a dirty phrase. The author does an excellent job of explaining what that phrase does and does not mean in the introduction, but I suspect that the polarizing nature of our society means that a book with such a title will most likely be purchased by those already inclined towards its contents.
With that said, the contents inside of the book are most welcome and should be of benefit to social justice skeptics, advocates, and ministers alike.
Readers of this devotional volume will appreciate the Introduction and first 15 days, which provide an orientation to a biblical grounds for engagement in social justice work and advocacy.
Devotions focused on a wider variety specific justice issues such as ableism, environmentalism, and criminal justice reform form the bulk of the devotional’s remaining materials, and may challenge some readers in areas of unrecognized bias or apathy.
Included meditations and prayers at the end of each entry are good ways to carry the conversation beyond the couple of pages of daily reflection, and perhaps suggest that this work might act as a good resource for families and church small groups.
The state of public discourse in the United States makes this work a timely release, and its nature as a devotional is properly primed for personal and small group church usage. Such is important as many churches find themselves confronting the various narratives that members receive from news sources, social media, and other spheres on influence. Practical discussion grounded in biblical wisdom is needed for churches to provide clarity on what are proper stances for those who claim the scriptures as their authority.
One small area of concern may be the devotional’s title, which could limit the work’s potential reach amongst individuals who view “social justice” as a dirty phrase. The author does an excellent job of explaining what that phrase does and does not mean in the introduction, but I suspect that the polarizing nature of our society means that a book with such a title will most likely be purchased by those already inclined towards its contents.
With that said, the contents inside of the book are most welcome and should be of benefit to social justice skeptics, advocates, and ministers alike.
September 4, 2021
On Love and Mercy
A Social Justice Devotional
By Stephen Mattson
I've known Stephen for a number of years through his writing; we have yet to meet in person. I've been doing the Faith Walk for 48 of my 69 years; I came to Faith in my third year of college. I was raised so far outside the Church that the vocabulary wasn't even used. My first two years at college defined Christians as being people who sentenced me to Hell [whatever that might be] without ever bothering to learn my name. Coming to Faith was an unexpected jolt to my way of seeing the world.
While I still believe that there are a lot of people in the church that meet the above definition, I have also found that there are people in the church who put my needs and the needs of others, above their own. I have decided that this is the type of person I want to be, despite the fact that I don't particularly enjoy being around people.
Working with Medical Teams International in various places, I have encountered the problem of Social Justice firsthand; working for City government in one of the Whitest cities in the U.S. has also taught me about the ineffectiveness of local government to institute change.
Despite my 40+ years of studying Theology, Stephen continues to show me new ways to look at Scripture, and has shown me how often I tend to overlook parts of Scripture that I should have learned in the past.
In today's world, Voices such as Stephen's need to be heard. While the Church can go on doing what has been done for a millennium; we have long passed the point where we need to change the way we live, in order to follow Jesus.
A Social Justice Devotional
By Stephen Mattson
I've known Stephen for a number of years through his writing; we have yet to meet in person. I've been doing the Faith Walk for 48 of my 69 years; I came to Faith in my third year of college. I was raised so far outside the Church that the vocabulary wasn't even used. My first two years at college defined Christians as being people who sentenced me to Hell [whatever that might be] without ever bothering to learn my name. Coming to Faith was an unexpected jolt to my way of seeing the world.
While I still believe that there are a lot of people in the church that meet the above definition, I have also found that there are people in the church who put my needs and the needs of others, above their own. I have decided that this is the type of person I want to be, despite the fact that I don't particularly enjoy being around people.
Working with Medical Teams International in various places, I have encountered the problem of Social Justice firsthand; working for City government in one of the Whitest cities in the U.S. has also taught me about the ineffectiveness of local government to institute change.
Despite my 40+ years of studying Theology, Stephen continues to show me new ways to look at Scripture, and has shown me how often I tend to overlook parts of Scripture that I should have learned in the past.
In today's world, Voices such as Stephen's need to be heard. While the Church can go on doing what has been done for a millennium; we have long passed the point where we need to change the way we live, in order to follow Jesus.
August 31, 2021
A clear, thoughtful and inspiring devotional that is sure to get you thinking on social justice AND Jesus and how beautifully they intertwine.
Mattson writes with passion and focused clarity. He centers love and Jesus in a way that would be hard even for those more conservative Christians who are triggered by the politicized “social justice” term to ignore the two’s interconnectedness.
The daily chapters are a great length. He gives you just enough to chew on. The prayers and questions to ponder at the end of each chapter are powerful and have the potential to change us with the help of the Holy Spirit.
This book would be great for groups or personal devotionals. The end of chapter questions could even be used for group discussions. I’d even recommend it for teens who are pondering our world and all that’s happening or for families with older kids to read together.
If you are someone who hears “social justice” and thinks of Marxism, Liberals, etc, I urge you to read with an open mind and heart. You may find some chapters towards the middle or here and there speak to where you’re at. Take what you can and sit with what makes you question. It’s ok to not know and just sit on new information.
I highly recommend this book. I believe it is deeply and divinely beautiful. I think this book will be life changing for many. I commend Mattson for so bolding standing for love and justice and jesus.
I received a free copy for a fair and honest review.
Mattson writes with passion and focused clarity. He centers love and Jesus in a way that would be hard even for those more conservative Christians who are triggered by the politicized “social justice” term to ignore the two’s interconnectedness.
The daily chapters are a great length. He gives you just enough to chew on. The prayers and questions to ponder at the end of each chapter are powerful and have the potential to change us with the help of the Holy Spirit.
This book would be great for groups or personal devotionals. The end of chapter questions could even be used for group discussions. I’d even recommend it for teens who are pondering our world and all that’s happening or for families with older kids to read together.
If you are someone who hears “social justice” and thinks of Marxism, Liberals, etc, I urge you to read with an open mind and heart. You may find some chapters towards the middle or here and there speak to where you’re at. Take what you can and sit with what makes you question. It’s ok to not know and just sit on new information.
I highly recommend this book. I believe it is deeply and divinely beautiful. I think this book will be life changing for many. I commend Mattson for so bolding standing for love and justice and jesus.
I received a free copy for a fair and honest review.
November 2, 2021
This book will be a gift for whoever reads it. Stephen Mattson writes in a way that draws people towards the heart of God. If people are to know that Christians are Jesus’ followers by our LOVE, then our response to whatever we face needs to start there. Mattson both encourages and challenges readers towards that goal, and calls us to examine what keeps us from leading with love. Considering this book’s intention as a devotional and the brevity of each section, it is amazing that he was able to address complex issues with as much depth as he did. Starting with the introduction, he defuses some of the arguments that are often brought against the words “social justice”, and consistently points readers towards the words and attitudes of Jesus. His previous book, The Great Reckoning, takes a deeper look at many of the topics addressed here. Devotional meditation sections are often overly simple, but the reflections at the end of each day really call readers into a space of connection with God, with our own personal stories, and into connection to the stories of the world around us. A line from the day 7 meditation/prayer really represents the heart of this book: “I pray that my Christianity will never prevent me from being Christlike." Readers who engage with this book will certainly be called towards being more Christlike.
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 22, 2021
Stephen Mattson has no agenda. His book isn’t political. It is only Biblical. It is only about Jesus and His example. His explanation and teaching on Jesus and Social Justice is simple and true and good. He asks us in the devotional to dig deep and truly reflect on Christ’s walk. Every devotion left me challenged, convicted and more in love with Jesus.
Some quotes from the opening:
“The pursuit of social justice is neither a partisan platform nor a secular cause, but rather a righteous endeavor exemplified perfectly by the person of Jesus.”
“From this foundation of wanting, pursuing, and implementing justice within our society, we can confidently as Christ-followers know that social justice is indeed a godly venture. May we “learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause” (Isaiah 1:17).”
“As Christ has shown us through his life and words, the best way to bring about social justice in a society is through love. To love others is what social justice work is all about, and it’s also what Jesus commanded us to do. Christianity and social justice go hand in hand, and we can be confident in our pursuit of implementing justice within our society because in doing so we’re being like Jesus.”
“I received a free copy for a fair and honest review.”
Some quotes from the opening:
“The pursuit of social justice is neither a partisan platform nor a secular cause, but rather a righteous endeavor exemplified perfectly by the person of Jesus.”
“From this foundation of wanting, pursuing, and implementing justice within our society, we can confidently as Christ-followers know that social justice is indeed a godly venture. May we “learn to do good; seek justice, correct oppression; bring justice to the fatherless, plead the widow's cause” (Isaiah 1:17).”
“As Christ has shown us through his life and words, the best way to bring about social justice in a society is through love. To love others is what social justice work is all about, and it’s also what Jesus commanded us to do. Christianity and social justice go hand in hand, and we can be confident in our pursuit of implementing justice within our society because in doing so we’re being like Jesus.”
“I received a free copy for a fair and honest review.”
September 23, 2021
I found the devotional expressed clearly how to respond to social justice issues that trouble me as a follower of Christ. As a mother and grandmother my heart is broken by news reports of abuse of immigrants at the southern US border, particularly those of children torn from families, placed "in cages" & then lost in a system which made no effort to track them. More recently in Canada we are shocked at finding thousands of unmarked graves (Indigenous children taken from families to residential schools to erase their culture and then abused & killed by those who were their caregivers). And I have been touched personally by racism, ableism, MeToo & ageism. And my church distances itself from awareness & accountability. No wonder mainline denominations are decreasing in members.
Mattson in On Love and Mercy, reminds us of Jesus' greatest commandment to love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your mind, with all your soul and the second, to love your neighbour as yourself. And then he recalls the parable of the Good Samaritan the stranger, the despised person who actually shows love and compassion to the man in peril. He is speaking of the heart of the Christian gospel to love all of humanity not just those of the same race, religion, country or he that might just return some good, favour to you. He argues that social justice is a distinctly holy endeavour, that respects the human dignity of each & every person.H
Mattson in On Love and Mercy, reminds us of Jesus' greatest commandment to love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your mind, with all your soul and the second, to love your neighbour as yourself. And then he recalls the parable of the Good Samaritan the stranger, the despised person who actually shows love and compassion to the man in peril. He is speaking of the heart of the Christian gospel to love all of humanity not just those of the same race, religion, country or he that might just return some good, favour to you. He argues that social justice is a distinctly holy endeavour, that respects the human dignity of each & every person.H
November 3, 2021
Steven Mattson has given an eloquent voice to my thoughts and feelings about social justice and it’s place in Christianity. No longer can the Church hide from confronting its position (or lack thereof) on social justice. There are inherent flaws in the way many Christian’s confuse their nationalism with Christianity. This devotional is a beautiful reminder of the love that Christ calls us to. We have to do better and call out Christian nationalism by confronting it with what Jesus tells us through scripture that He calls us to do. Social justice is not about political sides although many have made it as such. And quite honestly, I don’t think most Christian’s even understand what Christian nationalism is or that is what they stand for. Their eyes are covered and they cannot see themselves. This devotional is an eye opener. It will be a great gift to someone that you hope to help understand what love and mercy means regarding social justice. It isn’t a movement, it is Christlike love. Thank you Stephen for this brilliantly written and insightful devotional. It is much needed to help Christian’s walk our talk.
*I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
*I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 6, 2021
Just began reading this devotional on social justice in the past few days and am grateful for Mr. Mattson’s insights and clear scripture references to back up the call to social justice as believers/followers of Jesus. This book is very timely and I’m finding it challenging in the best possible way! It is challenging me to really think and live and love as Christ taught us over and over again.
Thank you for your boldness and for your willingness to speak truth in a time that many do not seek God’s truth, but make truth fit their own agenda and purposes. I’m encouraged by your writing and have been very much so over the past year or so.
Read this book. ❤️
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Thank you for your boldness and for your willingness to speak truth in a time that many do not seek God’s truth, but make truth fit their own agenda and purposes. I’m encouraged by your writing and have been very much so over the past year or so.
Read this book. ❤️
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 10, 2021
"I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.”
Social Justice Devotional: On Love and Mercy is a timely and necessary devotional for anyone looking to refresh, refine or being “doing good”.
If for nothing the introduction with its break down of terms, definitions and historical content will set the record straight for so many.
I truly believe it will enlighten, refresh and correct many during this critical time of “doing good” and drawing all to the foot of the cross for healing, truth, love, mercy and kindness.
It’s easy to read and gives enough “umph” to get your mind and heart engaged
Social Justice Devotional: On Love and Mercy is a timely and necessary devotional for anyone looking to refresh, refine or being “doing good”.
If for nothing the introduction with its break down of terms, definitions and historical content will set the record straight for so many.
I truly believe it will enlighten, refresh and correct many during this critical time of “doing good” and drawing all to the foot of the cross for healing, truth, love, mercy and kindness.
It’s easy to read and gives enough “umph” to get your mind and heart engaged
November 1, 2021
To each believer who has wrestled with the “Christian“ response to so many issues of our time and how the church has failed in so many ways to seek justice, love, and mercy for those who are marginalized, despised or rejected in our society, this is the devotional for you! Day after day, as I read the pre-release copy, which was shared with me by the author, my heart, my mind, and my spirit were challenged by these profound words. This is not a “feel good devotional”, rather it is a challenging, convicting, and encouraging devotional, meant to grow your heart toward justice. Thank you, Stephen, for challenging, convicting, and encouraging me to grow in my faith.
November 9, 2021
Mattson's devotional is a deep and wide look at both what social justice is and how it is expressed throughout Scripture. Drawing from the breadth of the Bible, Mattson highlights verses, examples, and commandments to love our neighbors and care for the poor and marginalized. With scripture, medications, and prayers for 60 days that address topics within the social justice conversation through the book, this is an invaluable resource! It is easy to understand for the new activists and provides manna for the long-suffering social justice warriors alike. I can't wait to use this resource within my justice ministry work! I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
September 15, 2021
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
I loved Stephen Mattson's first book, The Great Reckoning. This is a different kind of read because it is daily devotionals. After having read and enjoyed his other book, I couldn't help but want to read more than one devotional at a time. They are quite short and once I get going on a topic, I like to spend a little more time with it. That said, I obviously found them enjoyable and definitely worth continuing. But if you find yourself wanting more, check out The Great Reckoning!
I loved Stephen Mattson's first book, The Great Reckoning. This is a different kind of read because it is daily devotionals. After having read and enjoyed his other book, I couldn't help but want to read more than one devotional at a time. They are quite short and once I get going on a topic, I like to spend a little more time with it. That said, I obviously found them enjoyable and definitely worth continuing. But if you find yourself wanting more, check out The Great Reckoning!
June 6, 2022
It is challenging to review a book that reiterates what one already believes, yet I shall try.
Beginning with a biblical framework defining social justice, Mattson then delves into Jesus as a role model, and social justice themes: citizenship, the idolatry of nationalism, immigration, racism, ageism, ableism, reparations, poverty, to name a few.
Whether familiar, comfortable ideas, or uncomfortable and new, Mattson encourages and affirms readers "do justice".
Beginning with a biblical framework defining social justice, Mattson then delves into Jesus as a role model, and social justice themes: citizenship, the idolatry of nationalism, immigration, racism, ageism, ableism, reparations, poverty, to name a few.
Whether familiar, comfortable ideas, or uncomfortable and new, Mattson encourages and affirms readers "do justice".
June 8, 2022
A devotional for troubled times
Succinct, easy to read, and Wells grounded in Scripture, this devotional offers comfort to those disturbed by a world that seems to go out of its way to be cruel. It offers a new perspective and a plan of action to have one's actions reflect their faith.
Succinct, easy to read, and Wells grounded in Scripture, this devotional offers comfort to those disturbed by a world that seems to go out of its way to be cruel. It offers a new perspective and a plan of action to have one's actions reflect their faith.
December 14, 2022
This is an excellent walk through the ways the Gospel supports the various social justice outreaches. Stephen Mattson does a great job of explaining carefully and consistently how Jesus lived and showed us a "more excellent way." This doesn't come across as some passionate activism, but as genuine love and care for our neighbors.
September 27, 2025
A case for mercy, love, and justice
If we truly live as “little Christs” then we will live out the words and acts that were displayed by Jesus. This 60-day devotional will inspire and encourage you to do just that.
If we truly live as “little Christs” then we will live out the words and acts that were displayed by Jesus. This 60-day devotional will inspire and encourage you to do just that.
November 16, 2025
Interesting reflections, but I thought would have been more thought provoking and approachable to a wider audience exploring the social justice calling inherent to Christian faith if it was less direct and more nuanced.
November 3, 2021
Stephen has written a book that is a mini overview about faith and what the bible is actually all about.
December 31, 2021
There is a moment in this devotional, just a few days in, where Stephen Mattson's prayer hits me between the eyes. It's when he says, "I pray that my Christianity will never prevent me from being Christlike."
Mattson's sixty-day devotional is written with passion and a spiritual clarity too often lacking in this modern age. He reminds us time and again that social justice is a spiritual responsibility and the very heart of what following Christ is all about. Mattson's book will take you into a daily examination of your heart and challenge you to rethink how and what you believe and force you away from the clichés many of us have always accepted as "gospel truth" all of our lives.
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Mattson's sixty-day devotional is written with passion and a spiritual clarity too often lacking in this modern age. He reminds us time and again that social justice is a spiritual responsibility and the very heart of what following Christ is all about. Mattson's book will take you into a daily examination of your heart and challenge you to rethink how and what you believe and force you away from the clichés many of us have always accepted as "gospel truth" all of our lives.
I received a free copy in exchange for a fair and honest review.
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