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He Walks Among Us: Encounters with Christ in a Broken World
God sees the poor as blessed. Rich and Reneé Stearns show us why.
We often separate ourselves from people who are different from us, sometimes even intentionally. This book is a great reminder of all the things we share in common—hopes, dreams, heartaches—and most important of all, it reminds us that He walks among us. All of us. This book offers great perspective from our brothers and sisters around the world.
Rich and Reneé Stearns have traveled the world visiting the most poverty-stricken habitations imaginable, and they’ve discovered an amazing and common occurrence among the people who live joy can be found no matter how dire your circumstances. He Walks Among Us is a 90-day devotional giving readers an up-close and personal view of Christ in the lives of mothers, fathers, and children who have so little, yet are so rich in His spirit and love. Christians who are interested in or committed to missionary outreach will encounter the transforming power and courage needed to make a difference in someone else’s life.
Spiritual lessons The Choice to Believe—No Matter What; Our True Identity Is in Christ; Discovering Joy in Unexpected Places; Having Unshakable Hope in the Power of God; Our Circumstances Don’t Define Who We Are; We Become Transformed When We Invest in Others; and Remaining Faithful to Your Calling No Matter the Obstacles.
He Walks Among Us features the award-winning photography of World Vision® photographer Jon Warren.
We often separate ourselves from people who are different from us, sometimes even intentionally. This book is a great reminder of all the things we share in common—hopes, dreams, heartaches—and most important of all, it reminds us that He walks among us. All of us. This book offers great perspective from our brothers and sisters around the world.
Rich and Reneé Stearns have traveled the world visiting the most poverty-stricken habitations imaginable, and they’ve discovered an amazing and common occurrence among the people who live joy can be found no matter how dire your circumstances. He Walks Among Us is a 90-day devotional giving readers an up-close and personal view of Christ in the lives of mothers, fathers, and children who have so little, yet are so rich in His spirit and love. Christians who are interested in or committed to missionary outreach will encounter the transforming power and courage needed to make a difference in someone else’s life.
Spiritual lessons The Choice to Believe—No Matter What; Our True Identity Is in Christ; Discovering Joy in Unexpected Places; Having Unshakable Hope in the Power of God; Our Circumstances Don’t Define Who We Are; We Become Transformed When We Invest in Others; and Remaining Faithful to Your Calling No Matter the Obstacles.
He Walks Among Us features the award-winning photography of World Vision® photographer Jon Warren.
287 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 9, 2013
53 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Richard Stearns
36 books53 followersRichard Stearns is the president of World Vision United States, an international Christian relief and development organization.
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
September 3, 2021
This is more like 2.5 stars. Some of the devotional are nice and there are good pictures, but overall the angle and the sentimental writing is… eh. There has to be a better way to write a devotion focused on the poor without romanticizing and without the obvious promotion of their organization. A better project would have been getting local leaders from these various countries that are involved in community development to write devotionals rather that the rich CEO couple that come for brief stays and cross-cultural experiences (even though I’m sure they’re fantastic people).
August 12, 2025
Excellent. Truly could not put it down. While I believe it is meant to be a devotional, I read it as a chapter book and it’s content was truly inspiring.
It prompts perspective change and conviction in the things we complain about through stories of individuals throughout the world living on less than a dollar a day.
Through stories, statistics, and photos, it allows you to imagine what life is like for billions of people around the world who still follow Christ, despite living in the worst of environments among disease and poverty.
This book provokes the reader not to change the world, but to do something, no matter how small. One does not have to travel to a foreign country to preach the good news, the good news is preached through a lasagna for your neighbor or a completed load of dishes for a friend.
Personal most impactful quotes:
“Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could do only a little.” - Edmond Burke
“I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God Who is sending a love letter to the world." - Mother Teresa
“So, is helping one child just a small drop in a very large bucket? It’s all a matter of perspective. If we see the world’s needy children as millions of tiny buckets just waiting to be filled, the question changes to ‘How many buckets, Lord, do You want me to fill?”
“No act of love and compassion done in the name of Christ is ever in vain.”
“Christ identified with humanity- to the point that it cost Him His life.”
“I say soccer ball, but what the child carried was little more than a bundle of old plastic bags tied up with string.”
“But she stood on just one leg and clapped with only one arm. Demosi had lost both an arm and a leg on the day of the earthquake. But there she was, leading the choir and praising her Lord enthusiastically.”
“Mother Teresa once said that in the faces of the poor, she met, ‘Jesus in His most distressing disguise.’ We too have met Jesus in the faces of our new friends around the world. And knowing Jesus’ great love for ‘the least of these,’ is it any wonder that He walks among them?”
It prompts perspective change and conviction in the things we complain about through stories of individuals throughout the world living on less than a dollar a day.
Through stories, statistics, and photos, it allows you to imagine what life is like for billions of people around the world who still follow Christ, despite living in the worst of environments among disease and poverty.
This book provokes the reader not to change the world, but to do something, no matter how small. One does not have to travel to a foreign country to preach the good news, the good news is preached through a lasagna for your neighbor or a completed load of dishes for a friend.
Personal most impactful quotes:
“Nobody made a greater mistake than he who did nothing because he could do only a little.” - Edmond Burke
“I am a little pencil in the hand of a writing God Who is sending a love letter to the world." - Mother Teresa
“So, is helping one child just a small drop in a very large bucket? It’s all a matter of perspective. If we see the world’s needy children as millions of tiny buckets just waiting to be filled, the question changes to ‘How many buckets, Lord, do You want me to fill?”
“No act of love and compassion done in the name of Christ is ever in vain.”
“Christ identified with humanity- to the point that it cost Him His life.”
“I say soccer ball, but what the child carried was little more than a bundle of old plastic bags tied up with string.”
“But she stood on just one leg and clapped with only one arm. Demosi had lost both an arm and a leg on the day of the earthquake. But there she was, leading the choir and praising her Lord enthusiastically.”
“Mother Teresa once said that in the faces of the poor, she met, ‘Jesus in His most distressing disguise.’ We too have met Jesus in the faces of our new friends around the world. And knowing Jesus’ great love for ‘the least of these,’ is it any wonder that He walks among them?”
December 6, 2020
The pictures are stunning and is a great study to add to your daily walk.
December 22, 2016
***stories & pictures reveal Christ still walks among us***
Richard Stearns former CEO of Parker Brothers and his wife Renee, logged over “two million air miles to the uttermost parts of the globe” after Richard assumed leadership of World Vision in Seattle, WA. They traveled to listen, learn and offer a hand of friendship to the poorest of the poor across the globe.
While many would describe the people they met as hopeless with their lack of the most basic necessities of life our nation takes for granted, the Stearns found them “rich in wisdom, community, perseverance, courage, faith and even joy.”
This photojournalistic devotional is a treasure trove of their “sacred stories,” enhanced by the award winning photography of Jon Warren, who pictorially portrays why God sees the poor as blessed…
Richard Stearns former CEO of Parker Brothers and his wife Renee, logged over “two million air miles to the uttermost parts of the globe” after Richard assumed leadership of World Vision in Seattle, WA. They traveled to listen, learn and offer a hand of friendship to the poorest of the poor across the globe.
While many would describe the people they met as hopeless with their lack of the most basic necessities of life our nation takes for granted, the Stearns found them “rich in wisdom, community, perseverance, courage, faith and even joy.”
This photojournalistic devotional is a treasure trove of their “sacred stories,” enhanced by the award winning photography of Jon Warren, who pictorially portrays why God sees the poor as blessed…
April 21, 2014
Although I did feel a bit of the guilt trip vibe while reading this, as well as a small dose of self-promotion, the stories and images are so touching that I found myself so caught up in the book that I couldn't put it down. In fact, I liked it so much that since this was a library copy, I ordered a copy from Amazon. Not only will I read this again, I plan to share its stories and messages with others. It is an eye-opener to the struggles and the hope of people in need all over the world. My heart broke for hungry children but my soul was lifted learning how God is working to heal and restore broken lives.
July 24, 2014
loved the book. absolutely loved it. I've been reading it here in my new hospital I work with and it has comforted me so much. I relished the before last chapter called seven steps to poverty.... if we could all be sensitive to the needs of the poor around us. On top of it all I realized half way through that the photographer is Jon Warren who was a childhood friend of my husband. amazing. definitely in favor of supporting world vision.
January 14, 2014
LOVED!!!
June 6, 2014
If you sponsor a child, this is a really interesting look at how the lives of those children are affected.
May 4, 2014
photography that accompanies the stories is beautiful
January 20, 2019
I ordered this book after reading "The Hole in our Gospel" which is also authored by Rich Sterns. Everyone who claims to be a follower of Christ should read both of these books, as well as Rich's book entitled "Unfinished". Christ calls us to follow him by living a radically different life, one that truly reflects his life and his love. This devotional challenges us to deeply consider our commitment to living a radically different life. In sharing the raw stories of individuals around the world who have suffered so much, yet honor Christ in the midst of their struggles, Rich and Renee open our eyes and show us what it truly means to become a disciple of Jesus. My world view was blown open as a result of this book. Now I am left consider how I might respond. Am I going to be a decider for Christ or a disciple of Christ?
September 25, 2017
This book was far different than I expected yet it was very good. It reads more like a devotional rather than a typical non-fiction book. I loved all the stories in there- they really packed them in. I wish at times they would have taken longer with each story but then the book would have been a 1000 pages. Either way- great read to be inspired to bring the kingdom of God to the world.
April 30, 2020
This has been probably one of my favorite Christian books. I loved hearing about how people around the world overcame extreme circumstances, loss, and heartbreak through their trust in Christ. This was a very sobering book and look at humanity, but it also was hopeful.
November 15, 2021
humbling
Humbling book that reminds us how blessed we actually are in this and how there is always room to give. This book also gives hope that life is is of such value even when we take it for granted.
Humbling book that reminds us how blessed we actually are in this and how there is always room to give. This book also gives hope that life is is of such value even when we take it for granted.
May 25, 2024
I didn’t mind the devotional format but as someone else said on here, I would have loved if Rich and Reneé had included various leaders and locals from these countries write their own stories and/or lessons they wanted to share. I think it would have been a lot more meaningful and impactful.
November 3, 2024
Very insightful book on the way we should live in this broken world as light and salt. I learned many things from the former CEO of World Vision, Richard Sterns. His experiences around the world made this book a must read for any follower of Christ.
December 22, 2025
The stories are touching but sometimes they are awkwardly connected to the message they are trying to portray. It’s like they couldn’t figure out how to connect the stories to real life so they stretched it.
February 15, 2018
Beautiful short stories about finding hope and Jesus in the midst of war and extreme poverty. The photos are gorgeous and complement each story really well. 4.5
April 29, 2018
A must read
This book will change the way I look at others
We all need to know the hurts of others around the world
This book will change the way I look at others
We all need to know the hurts of others around the world
July 25, 2019
Incredible.
January 8, 2021
Good as a devotional book.
August 2, 2023
The book had lovely photos. But the writing was so choppy and definitely felt like an ad for the ministries the authors worked for.
October 15, 2014
Good though not quite as I expected.
April 27, 2017
Synopsis
Richard Stearns is the president of World Vision United States who, along with his wife Reneé, regularly visits the poorer countries of our world to see the ways the charity is helping to change people's lives. He Walks Among Us is a compilation of short thoughts and observations (two-to-three pages, including photographs) they have both had while conducting their work. As they alternate the writing, we are given opinions and experiences that we may be able to relate to our own. As Richard is the president of the organisation, he can give an insight into the way World Vision works, however, he can also express his opinions as a father, grandfather and believer in Christ. Reneé is also a World Vision worker, but due to her nature, gives a more maternal impression of the scenes she witnesses.
The individuals written about in this book come from all over the world. Most are located in Africa, but there are also similar stories in Asia, South and North America, and even Eastern Europe. The terrors these people have faced are shocking (AIDs, war, sexual abuse, natural disasters etc), but each family has been aided in some way by World Vision and their donors.
The purpose of He Walks Among Us is not to promote World Vision, but to encourage us to let God and Jesus into our lives. Richard and Reneé assume their readers are Christians, however, they realise that being a Christian does not equate to fully accepting God's plans. The victims of war, rape, and poverty mentioned have also been touched by Jesus. Many did not know him before World Vision came into their lives, but they have now been transformed through the power of his love - although their situation may not have significantly improved.
The actual stories used to illustrate the work of World Vision are only brief mentions, providing the bare bones of the situations. What Richard and Reneé have focused on is linking these lives, their lives and our lives to passages from the Bible. Either taken literally or metaphorically, the pair manage to relate everything to the actions and fates of a number of key Biblical characters. This emphasises that Our Lord is walking among us, giving life, peace, hope and steadfast faith.
Ideas
Giving someone new hope or purpose in their life can be related to Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. Whether people are literally dying, or on the edge of hopelessness and despair, improving their situation can turn their lives around.
The donors and workers at World Vision are like the Good Samaritan in Jesus' parable. We do not know these people, know their religion or circumstances, yet we send money and aid. To do nothing would make us the Priest or Levite in the story.
David was only a young boy when he had to face Goliath, yet, against all odds, he defeated him. The children mentioned in this book are similar to David. They each have their metaphorical Goliath's: poverty, illness, loss of parents, war, hunger etc, but with God working through us, these can be overcome.
Noteworthy Bible Verses
Each chapter of the book begins with a Bible verse, and often more are included within the text. Here are a few that really relate to the work of World Vision and the ways in which we can involve ourselves:
Philippians 4:12-13
Luke 21:3-4
Luke 6:20-21
Psalm 23:4
Statistics
23 million people in sub-Sahara Africa are suffering from HIV.
In Soviet-controlled Georgia, churches were banned. Some villages are only just seeing their first church in over 400 years.
20 thousand children under the age of 5 die every day.
Every 4 seconds a child under 5 dies.
Over 2 billion people in the world are living on $2 or less a day.
1 billion people have no access to clean drinking water.
41% of the population in Niger have no clean water.
Citations
Helen Keller: "So much has been given to me, I have no time to ponder over that which is denied."
Oswald Chambers: "The great hindrance in spiritual life is that we will look for big things to do. Jesus took a towel ... and began to wash the disciples' feet."
Mother Theresa: "I am a pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world."
C.S. Lewis: "Humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less."
Other Mentions
Hymn - Frances R. Havergal, Take my Life and let it be.
Film - Pushing the Elephant
Richard Stearns is the president of World Vision United States who, along with his wife Reneé, regularly visits the poorer countries of our world to see the ways the charity is helping to change people's lives. He Walks Among Us is a compilation of short thoughts and observations (two-to-three pages, including photographs) they have both had while conducting their work. As they alternate the writing, we are given opinions and experiences that we may be able to relate to our own. As Richard is the president of the organisation, he can give an insight into the way World Vision works, however, he can also express his opinions as a father, grandfather and believer in Christ. Reneé is also a World Vision worker, but due to her nature, gives a more maternal impression of the scenes she witnesses.
The individuals written about in this book come from all over the world. Most are located in Africa, but there are also similar stories in Asia, South and North America, and even Eastern Europe. The terrors these people have faced are shocking (AIDs, war, sexual abuse, natural disasters etc), but each family has been aided in some way by World Vision and their donors.
The purpose of He Walks Among Us is not to promote World Vision, but to encourage us to let God and Jesus into our lives. Richard and Reneé assume their readers are Christians, however, they realise that being a Christian does not equate to fully accepting God's plans. The victims of war, rape, and poverty mentioned have also been touched by Jesus. Many did not know him before World Vision came into their lives, but they have now been transformed through the power of his love - although their situation may not have significantly improved.
The actual stories used to illustrate the work of World Vision are only brief mentions, providing the bare bones of the situations. What Richard and Reneé have focused on is linking these lives, their lives and our lives to passages from the Bible. Either taken literally or metaphorically, the pair manage to relate everything to the actions and fates of a number of key Biblical characters. This emphasises that Our Lord is walking among us, giving life, peace, hope and steadfast faith.
Ideas
Giving someone new hope or purpose in their life can be related to Jesus raising Lazarus from the dead. Whether people are literally dying, or on the edge of hopelessness and despair, improving their situation can turn their lives around.
The donors and workers at World Vision are like the Good Samaritan in Jesus' parable. We do not know these people, know their religion or circumstances, yet we send money and aid. To do nothing would make us the Priest or Levite in the story.
David was only a young boy when he had to face Goliath, yet, against all odds, he defeated him. The children mentioned in this book are similar to David. They each have their metaphorical Goliath's: poverty, illness, loss of parents, war, hunger etc, but with God working through us, these can be overcome.
Noteworthy Bible Verses
Each chapter of the book begins with a Bible verse, and often more are included within the text. Here are a few that really relate to the work of World Vision and the ways in which we can involve ourselves:
Philippians 4:12-13
Luke 21:3-4
Luke 6:20-21
Psalm 23:4
Statistics
23 million people in sub-Sahara Africa are suffering from HIV.
In Soviet-controlled Georgia, churches were banned. Some villages are only just seeing their first church in over 400 years.
20 thousand children under the age of 5 die every day.
Every 4 seconds a child under 5 dies.
Over 2 billion people in the world are living on $2 or less a day.
1 billion people have no access to clean drinking water.
41% of the population in Niger have no clean water.
Citations
Helen Keller: "So much has been given to me, I have no time to ponder over that which is denied."
Oswald Chambers: "The great hindrance in spiritual life is that we will look for big things to do. Jesus took a towel ... and began to wash the disciples' feet."
Mother Theresa: "I am a pencil in the hand of a writing God who is sending a love letter to the world."
C.S. Lewis: "Humility is not thinking less of yourself but thinking of yourself less."
Other Mentions
Hymn - Frances R. Havergal, Take my Life and let it be.
Film - Pushing the Elephant
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews