For the Least of These

Here in Maryland, we are gearing up for the November 2014 elections.  All of the statewide offices will be on the ballot.  Since Democrats outnumber Republicans 2 to 1 in the state, many feel that voters decided the election during last month's primaries.  People also acknowledge that Maryland residents are pretty fed up.  Taxes are high.  Jobs are scarce.  Schools are struggling.  This may create an opening for Republicans to make the case that they could make things a little better for the people.

But do Republicans really have the answers?  Most people believe Republican principles and policies benefit only a few, mainly the wealthy and big businesses.  The prevailing wisdom is that the middle class and the poor suffer under Republican leadership.  This is troubling because Maryland has some of the largest income disparities between rich and poor in the nation.  Also, poverty and unemployment are at crisis levels in some of the urban areas like Baltimore. 

This seems like a great opportunity to educate ourselves on what the ultimate Authority has to say, which is why I was excited to see this book, For the Least of These: A Biblical Answer to Poverty.  This book is for well-meaning people of faith who feel called to serve or advocate for those who live in poverty.  The book is also helpful if you believe that how you vote is part of that calling.  The book combines "Biblical exegesis with proven economic principles" and is designed to "equip Christians with both a solid biblical understanding of how best to care for the poor and foster sustainable economic development."  Just a few pages in, the book makes clear that government subsidies alone are not inline with Biblical principals and generally do not work.  This is consistent with what we see play out in our communities where it is very difficult to break the cycle of poverty even if you have robust government programs for the poor.  The editors of the book, Dr. Anne Bradley and Dr. Art Lindsey, will discuss their research at the Heritage Foundation this week.  Check this website for details on attending or viewing a webcast!