The poverty rate in the United States has skyrocketed to 15.7%, a level not seen since 1965. In Canada the rate stands at 9.6% – sad, but not as staggering.

English: Poverty Rates by Age: 1959 to 2008. U...

Poverty Rates by Age: 1959 to 2008. United States. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

I just read the news report by Nevil Hunt this morning. Associated Press conducted the survey.

When Jesus said, “You will always have the poor with you and can help them whenever you want” (Mark 14:7 God’s Word) I don’t think the meaning could prescribe government policy to make sure the poor get poorer (and more of them)!

The problem surpasses my ability to resolve. So what can I do?

When opportunity comes to act with compassion then I need to react actively. Jesus did prescribe that Christians must act with godly kindness. “I was hungry, and you gave me something to eat. I was thirsty, and you gave me something to drink. I was a stranger, and you took me into your home. I needed clothes, and you gave me something to wear. I was sick, and you took care of me. I was in prison, and you visited me” (Matthew 25:35-36 God’s Word).

Percent poverty world map

Percent poverty world map (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

The scale of the kindness has little to do with amount. God looks at the intent of our action. When the widow gave less than a penny to the Temple Fund as a sacrifice to her God (Mark 12:41-44// Luke 21:1-4), Jesus spoke with great respect about her.

Jesus calls us do what we can. Our response can either show submission to Almighty God, or the almighty dollar.