Michael Mather’s book Having Nothing, Possessing Everything is a powerful testament to the value of asset-based community development in addressing poverty and inequality. Drawing on his experiences working with the congregation of Broadway United Methodist Church in Indianapolis, Mather offers a compelling vision of how we can build stronger, more resilient communities by recognizing the abundance of resources that already exist within them.
At the heart of Mather’s approach is the concept of asset-based community development. Rather than focusing on deficits and needs, Mather believes that we should look to the strengths and assets that already exist within communities. By recognizing and building upon these strengths, we can create more sustainable solutions that are rooted in the local context.
One of the key strengths that Mather emphasizes in his book is the abundance of spiritual wealth that can be found even in the midst of material poverty. By recognizing the gifts that we already have, rather than focusing on what we lack, Mather believes that we can find greater meaning and purpose in our lives, even in the face of hardship.
Another important aspect of Mather’s approach is the idea of reducing the gap between service providers and service recipients. Too often, he argues, those who are providing services to those in need are disconnected from the communities that they serve, and do not fully understand the challenges and opportunities that exist within those communities. By working to bridge this gap, and by building more meaningful relationships between service providers and service recipients, Mather believes that we can create more effective and sustainable solutions to the challenges of poverty and inequality.
Ultimately, Mather’s book is a powerful reminder that we are all connected, and that we all have something to offer. By recognizing the assets and strengths that exist within our communities, and by working together to build on those strengths, we can create more vibrant and resilient communities that support and uplift all of their members. As Mather writes, “We save each other. We are each other's blessing. We are each other's gift. We are each other's strength. We are each other's abundance.”
Pastor Mike Mather with Bringing Justice Home Founders, Maria Accardi and Constance Merritt, February 7, 2023
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