'Poverty and Justice" Bible Calls Christians to Action

Nearly 40 million Americans are living in poverty as the holiday season approaches, according to the U.S. Census Bureau-- a more than 13 percent increase since 2007.

The church used to be at the forefront of problems like poverty and justice, but has slowly moved away to other issues.

That fact is what led to the production of the Poverty and Justice Bible now in stores.

With its bold cover depicting a chain being shattered, the book draws attention to what the Word of God says about the front and center issues many people are facing today-- including how to find freedom.

The American Bible Society partnered with the international relief organization World Vision to produce the Bible. Their goal is to show that poverty and justice have always been on the heart of God.

The Poverty and Justice Bible is the first American Bible to highlight the more than 2,000 verses that deal with those issues. It's not a new translation, however, and uses the Contemporary English Version.

The Bible is filled with bright orange highlighting on key passages and has an integrated study guide that helps people put their concerns for the oppressed into action.