We are complex creations. We live with competing voices in our heads. Most of us begin with nothing. Altruism and empathy are valued. Then comes the jungle. We develop labels for those who have little. Lazy is a common brand we apply. Some in power tell us that empathy can be toxic. Our conscience is salved. Some become rich on the hard work of poor people. Isn’t life transactional? Did not God intend for us to avail ourselves of every advantage? Good business leaves many behind.

How did money become the measure of success? How did it become the goal of a fulfilling Christian Life? Political powers propose in their latest budget to cut billions of dollars in subsidies for the poorest among us. Many of these individuals argue that we should cut aid to impoverished people in foreign nations. They say we have to use the money for foreigners to assist Americans at home. The money proposed to be stripped away is Medicaid and food stamps, and insurance for millions of the poverty-stricken. The Bill provides billions of dollars for the ultra-wealthy in the form of tax cuts. Shall we do evil that good may come?

There are snares along our path. A corner cut here and a stop sign run there will enhance our portfolio. If no one sees the tree fall in the forest, did it really fall? Politicians enter politics with good intentions. Then there is the money and rubbing shoulders with those who have a lot of it. One thing leads to another, the song tells us. So many who have wealth look down their nose at the working poor if they have to pay the salary. Goodness, their health care is high and cannot be afforded by the elite. How could minimum wage be $15 per hour? That is a lot of money, the rich say. They should follow my model for wealth accrual; the 5% tells us. Acknowledge the magic of investments and the backs of the poor who labor in obscurity. God blesses his chosen, the top of capitalism tells us…the rest are there to facilitate our state of blessing…