Theological challenges: proclaiming the fullness of life in the HIV/AIDS and global economic era

Abstract

Since the first clinical evidence of AIDS was reported two decades ago, HIV/AIDS has spread to every corner of the world. Still rapidly growing, the epidemic is reversing development gains, robbing millions of their lives, widening the gap between the rich and poor, and undermining social and economic security. Mission is carrying out God's work among people who are struggling to live with dignity and wholeness…Mission is to proclaim the good news that God affirms life over death, and that God acts among the poor, the majority of whom are women, who are victimized in the globalization of the market economy and left out in decision making processes. Mission is forming partnership…to struggle for life and work for justice for all people.” Traditionally, Jesus' own mission (Luke 4:18–19) and its mandate have been understood primarily in terms of proclaiming the word. What would be the further implications of seeing this mission also as that of spreading fire upon the earth?