Practical, devotional, biblical, and comprehensive. A great training manual for deacons and the work of the diaconate, as well as problems to avoid. Keller's heart for the diaconate and the work that they do is clearly shown here in a way that all deacons can learn from. Some might feel overwhelmed by the scope of Keller's mercy ministry ideas and offerings, but I think if a church were to go slowly, they could see many of these applications play out in a way that is edifying for the church, its members, and ultimately, for the "least of these" in their congregations and communities. Must read. ( )