It's 2 a.m. and I've just finished loading up this latest issue of Next-Wave.org. The subject matter of most of our articles this month have to deal with something that has been close to my heart and mind through the last few years. That subject is the Chuch and its social responsibility. My assumption has always been that part of the supposed "postmodern conversation" would have to deal with this subject in an honest matter at some point. In my mind, the typical evangelical or social approaches to the Gospel are no longer an option. We need to think through these concerns in a manner that will hopefully lead us to a more holistic view of the Gospel.

One of our writers this month, Ken Oster, has published a wonderful interpretation of the Sermon on the Mount called, The Jesus Manifesto. I find it fitting to leave you with his rendering of the Beatitudes to open up this month's issue:

My favorites are the optionless, because they operate in the reign of heaven.
My favorites are those who grieve, because they’ll be surprised by joy.
My favorites are those who heed the voice of conscience, because they can be trusted with the earth.
My favorites are those who pang to experience what’s right, because they’ll be satisfied.
My favorites are the merciful, because they’ll receive mercy.
My favorites are the pure in heart, because they’ll see God.
My favorites are those who work for peace, because they’ll be called children of God.
My favorites are those who are persecuted for doing right, because they operate in the reign of heaven.
My favorites are you! When people insult you, slander you and injure you on my account, keep your chin up and be happy. Your reward is great beyond what you see. Prophets have always been bullied.

I pray this issue - with it's varying points of view and writing style - will challenge you to approach this subject honestly and thoughtfully... for yourself and your community. And just in case you were wondering, we're still working on some of those other new features. Keep coming back... plan on seeing some new stuff real soon.

Peace,
Jason

A complete, printable version of The Jesus Manifesto is available from Doulos Christou Press here: http://www.douloschristoupress.com/manifesto.pdf. You may freely print and distribute this document.