Response to Tyler

I particularly appreciated your take on the "In the Zone" article. Paternalism vs. quietism. Very true. I think we can both agree that remaining quiet is not an option for Jesus followers. But the danger of paternalism is very real in those who want to become active.

Personally, I believe that the danger of paternalism will be rendered irrelevant when we finally meet the people. Paternalism I believe is far more prevalent when we are helping from afar, from the comforts of our own home, where we can do something noble. When we come face to face with those afflicted, however, I think something happens where natural bonds and relationships can finally occur, and true love can be expressed. It is far more difficult to remain up above it all when we are at the same level. And that's where I find that some of the Western resources we've found are particularly great. Many of them do have representatives who work actively with the very people they are helping. I don't find that to be paternalistic but rather a friend helping another friend in need.

Response to Hideyo's Analysis:

You are right that fighting HIV/AIDS is going to require costs to us in the West. I wonder how often we are actually aware of that. While we are not necessarily playing a zero-sum game in terms of costs and benefits, some sacrifice will need to be made. I like the practical question you ask of churches: "are we as churches willing to sacrifice buying a multi-channel sound board, and instead opt to support World Vision's work against HIV/AIDS?" It is sobering to remember that in churches we are really no different than the rest of the world. We want fancier equipment. We want better facilities for our kids and ourselves. I hope that does not come across as overly critical, just a sobering reminder. I wish I saw more churches doing something for World AIDS Day, but I don't. Again, I don't think it's because people don't want to care, but AIDS is not a reality for many people in our churches, especially if they are not in urban settings. Out of sight, out of mind. And therein is one of our main challenges: awareness. When the terrorists attacked on September 11, or when Hurricane Katrina hit, the churches in the US responded and responded with gusto. We can do something similar for AIDS. Perhaps there will be compassion fatigue, but we have to do something. I'm done preaching.