Want to make the world a better place? Don't think you have to do it alone.

Milton Hershey students volunteer at Fort Indiantown Gap

The more I get involved with the progressive view of Christianity, the more I realize that we as Christians are more often called to clothe, feed, heal and listen than to "make disciples." Some may see that as the easier way out. But in truth, I think taking on the quest to pursue social justice is much more of a sacrifice. So much that I had to ask myself, "are you really ready for this?"

It's such a big world, with so many people, with so many problems. And even if I would focus on local issues, it can still be overwhelming.

But then I realized...you don't have to do this alone. In fact, you're encouraged to not do this alone. That's what a church is for. And if church isn't for you, there are plenty of non-church groups and organizations one could get involved with.

Sometimes people, like myself, feel like they want to make the world a better place. Laudable as that is, I think there lies the danger of it being fueled too much by ego. Now some people may be successful at going at this alone. Especially if they take small bites. But others eventually face the reality of the situation, give up, and crawl back into their cocoons.

But when you take on this goal as a group, there is not only less ego involved, but you share the burden. You pool resources. You brainstorm ideas, then review and refine as a group. You get a variety of viewpoints. And best of all, you get encouragement and moral support.