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Monday, March 7, 2011

The Cause Within You - Matthew Barnett

Subtitle - Finding the one great thing you were created to do in this world. This author is the son of a famous preacher, and felt a lot of pressure to build a mega-church like his father. However, an encounter with the needy in Echo Park changed all that to a ministry to the homeless and street people. He then founded the Dream Center in Los Angeles and this book is how it came to be and examines it's growth and includes success stories of famous and not so famous people who have been helped through this ministry. Matthew really feels that he has found his calling in helping addicts kick the habit, training and helping others find jobs, and helping wherever and however needed. Many of his unique ministries are mentioned including the adopt-a-block program, where volunteers and staff visit the same block over and extended time doing whatever needs to be done.

The stories of people transformed in this book are amazing examples of what God can do in a person's life. Some have become staff members and counselors at the Dream Center to help others and pass it on. The only criticism I have is that God may not call you to that "one big thing " but several things at different stages in your life. I believe God can prepare us for different unique ministries based on our experience, personalities, and talents. Otherwise, this is an inspiring true story of a Christian truly helping others and showing God's love in the process.

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