Every once in a while you will find a book that inspires you. At other times will find a book that challenges you. Even more rarely, you will find a book that spurs you to action. The Hole in Our Gospel by Richard Stearns is all three of those books. The book does a good job of telling the story of CEO Richard Stearns' call to service while at the same time painting a clear picture of the social issues facing our world today.

I have been inspired by books before. Through Gates of Splendor was one such book, as was Three Cups of Tea. These books leave you amazed with what the life of one person can accomplish. Inspiration is important when our lives get stuck in a routine and we are lulled to sleep by the daily grind. In the case of The Hole in Our Gospel, inspiration is important when we have been lulled to complacency by our blessings.

I have also been challenged before. Dostoevsky’s Resurrection challenged my view of prisoners and what it means to be set free. The Ragamuffin Gospel challenged my view of God’s love. The Hole in Our Gospel challenges the reader to evaluate their worldview in light of the words of Christ. One does not need to be a Christian to be challenged by the book, but those who are will find the challenge all the more compelling.

Very few books have spurred me to action, however. The Hole in Our Gospel is not content to merely describe the poverty and justice issues facing our world. Nor is it content to merely describe people and organizations who are working to address those issues. The book challenges everyone to make a difference. What action I take as a result of this book has yet to be determined. The point is there is no middle ground. The book requires that one either choose to take action or choose to ignore the plight of millions around the world.

Essentially the book is a much needed punch in the face.

(The short version of this review can be found here.)