How Much is Enough? Hungering for God in an Affluent Culture.

How Much is Enough? Hungering for God in an Affluent Culture. By Arthur Simon. Grand Rapids, MI: Baker Book House, 2003. 192 pages. Paper. $11.99.

This is a difficult book to read. The words are easy, but the message drives us to look in a mirror and reevaluate our orientation to life. In a culture of consumption and affluence like that of the United States, Simon reminds us that there is an alternative: the way of gratitude and generosity. Simon encourages each of us to think carefully about how this might change our life. And that will give us the opportunity to improve the lives of others. In his own way Simon is reminding us that all that we have comes from God. If we believe that, it is a matter of stewardship to refocus our priorities.

Simon is a gifted pastor who has devoted much of his life and ministry to economic advocacy on behalf of others. Two experiences are paramount in his development. The first is his ministry in a Lutheran congregation in the Lower East Side of Manhattan starting in 1961. The second experience was the founding of the Christian citizens' lobby, Bread for the World. For more than two decades Simon led this group and saw hunger and deprivation firsthand around the world. American abundance and worldwide poverty confronted him daily.

This book is not just another plea to give up resources and feed others. Important as that is for the future of the world, Simon addresses the discontentment felt by so many who experience affluence. In comparison to most of the world, even the average American is affluent. Understanding that makes this a book for all of us. Consumerism and materialism won't fill the spiritual emptiness so many in an affluent society experience. Simon suggests that combining simpler living with justice for the poor and hungry people will help us experience God's grace in Jesus Christ and our call to discipleship.

Congregations and denominations are struggling with reduced financial resources to support the structures we have developed over many years. One reason suggested by some is that congregations and individuals are finding ways to help local agencies for the poor and hungry. Others suggest that our parishioners are saving for an uncertain future. I hope it is the former. As we try to understand what is occurring in our churches, Simon gives us a more constructive look at our role as disciples and stewards of all that we have, all that God has given us.

How Much is Enough? provides more than enough material to guide congregations and individuals in thinking about their search for God and their approach to the many financial resources at their disposal. And the book leads to so much more, perhaps even to commitment and working for economic justice for all around the world.

Rev. Kenneth M. Ruppar

Lutheran Church of Our Saviour 

Richmond, Virginia