9 for that void to be filled with servant leadership which specifically views humanity through the Imago Dei. We are all image bearers. And the threats facing our world today can only be adequately answered by first seeing the worth and dignity and value of every human being, most notably those so often left behind and marginalized. Whether it is the poor, affected doubly by a health crisis and a suffering economy, or people of color, impacted by the longstanding and systemic impact of racism, more than ever, our world needs Christian scholars speaking into these current crises with boldness and moral courage. The research in this journal thematically does just that. Our world is standing at an inflection point. How we respond to the crises before us will define us for at least a generation. History books will examine the various actions we do or do not take. It is our desire to be people who aptly live out what was one of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s favorite verses, Micah 6:8: “He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you? To do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God.” Justice, mercy, humility. Those characteristics are what should define a servant leader. As you read through this journal, I hope those aspirations become more apparent to you as well. There is much work to be done; however, with God, we know all things are possible. For the first edition of this journal, we would like to extend special thanks to our president, Dr. Adam Wright, for effectively leading DBU through the current crises, demonstrating the servant leadership we aspire our students and graduates to exhibit. Likewise, we thank Dr. Gary Cook, our chancellor, for setting the example for years of servant leadership. Our school bearing his name not only properly honors him for his dedication and leadership, but provides a challenge for us all to strive to meet. Additionally, I am thankful for Dr. Michael Whiting for his work in editing this journal and making it happen. He truly is a Christian scholar, servant leader, and global thinker. One final note, we continue to remember the family of Kenny and Melissa Comstock. Kenny was one of our finest. Tragically, he passed away before this journal, which includes one of his scholarly contributions, could be published. His life as a husband, father, son, sibling, pastor, student, and friend truly exemplifies what we all would aspire to be. Our prayers continue for his family. I hope you benefit from and enjoy reading these articles from our students, graduates, and faculty. FOREWORD
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