For many people, vision can be the primary way of interacting with the world and others. But sight vision is different from revelatory vision. God sometimes opens our experiential vision to see things in a profoundly new way. As a leader serving at-risk youth, the author of Worth Seeing considers it a great privilege in life to gain the vision of young people through the lens of enduring trauma.
Human beings have a natural desire to be seen because it makes us “feel whole, complete, validated.” This need is deeply connected to a person’s self-esteem and dignity. Unfortunately, poverty and other systems of injustice in society have resulted in a world where many people feel marginalized and unseen. Williams points out that such an experience is deeply traumatic. Even church ministries can become busy communicating their messages while failing to see the people these messages are for.
Christians serve a God who sees us individually and without prejudice. There are many biblical examples that show God appears to individuals who feel insignificant. The epiphany of God often translates into the simple but dignifying act of “I see you.” The author narrates the story of her upbringing and ministry experience to illustrate that it is only with this un-opportunistic act (seeing the unseen) that transformative ministry happens. This different type of vision also helps us see our own brokenness as a gift. This book is an encouraging read for all who engage in ministry, especially those leaders who serve at-risk populations who face challenges of substance abuse and trauma. (IVP)
About the Author
Mary Li Ma is a member of Plymouth Heights CRC church in Grand Rapids, Mich. She holds a Ph.D. from Cornell University and now works as a research analyst for a national research center on education equity.