Abstract
This book tells the story of a four-decade-long non-profit organization called Good Works, Inc., located in Athens County, Southeast Ohio, a community with a high poverty rate. The mission of the organization is to “connect people from all walks of life with people in poverty so that the Kingdom of God can be experienced” (1). Its primary ministry is to help those without homes and those who are in the vulnerable category of society to become meaningful participants of a community. The founder of Good Works, Inc., Keith Wasserman, narrates in first-person an account from his experience of how the ministry started and operated, what its philosophy of ministry and leadership are, and why the organization exists. Christine D. Pohl, Professor Emerita of Church in Society at Asbury Theological Seminary, has observed, learned from, and used Good Works, Inc. as a case study in her research. She wrote the last chapter, “How are Good Works Good?” and frames Wasserman's ministry in terms of hospitality, because she said almost everything they did fit into the category of hospitality.
This is a book about a testimony, an exemplary story, and an embodiment of hospitality in a sustained ministry that reflects Christian discipleship and what it means to be followers of Christ in our contemporary American culture. The introductory chapter written by Pohl provides an overview of Good Works, Inc, its mission, staff, and the five major themes that characterize the organization, namely: worship, integrity, perspective, friendship, and leadership. The subsequent chapters (chapters 1–5) follow the sequence of these five themes with each chapter treating one subject matter, all written by Wasserman. The final chapter (chapter 6) ends with Pohl's assessment of Good Works, Inc. in relation to practicing hospitality. Each chapter concludes with a prayer and a set of questions for reflection and discussion.
By using Good Works, Inc. as a case study for practicing hospitality in our contemporary world, the book offers a refreshing perspective on community building and leadership formation that are rooted in Wasserman's experience of particularity. Yet out of this particularity flows a universality that connects everyone who wishes to build a meaningful community, who strives to follow Jesus by helping marginalized people, and who aspires to become leaders in assisting others to practice hospitality. Wasserman's story shows his concern for the poor. His embodying the poor by becoming one of them on the streets demonstrates true discipleship as reflected in the biblical incarnation. His wisdom on relationships and leadership will prove helpful for those who are in leadership positions. His status as a founder and leader of an organization which has lasted for more than four decades teaches us that his approach to ministry is sustainable. The organization has indeed stood the test of time (151). Pohl's assessment of Good Works, Inc. is right on target by framing it as an aspect of discipleship and an avenue for formation in Christlikeness (144). The book invites the reader to rethink the cost of discipleship and challenges the shallow thinking on community that is defined only by gathering with people in the same economic condition.
The book is intended for a wide audience. But for those who are trained in biblical and theological studies, perhaps a more thorough discussion on key biblical passages related to hospitality and discipleship maybe helpful. Overall, the book serves its purpose to promulgate the story of Good Works, Inc. and to inspire the reader to do good works in their respective contexts.