As Christian's I believe we should be helping the poor and needy. About 14 years ago I joined a church which was against all government aasistance to the poor and needy. This concept was part of the doctrine of the church and was discussed in a class that they called Foundations that had to be taken for membership. They felt that it was the responsibility of the church and families to help people not the government. I told them that I did not agree with this but they accepted me into the church because it was not part of their core doctrine. I am willing to bet that there are members of this forum who recieve government benefits: Social Security, Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security Disability, Veterans benefits. Generallly in our society unless you are elderly or disabled medical benefits are part of your employment contract or agreement. There are however many people who work and who may have a serious medical condition, for example diabetes, which is very common and yet have no medical insurance. Because they cannot afford essential medications or treatments they do wthout until they become disabled to the point that they no longer are able to work and then are able to qualify for medical assistance. People who have adeqaute medical insurance in many cases either lack compassion or awareness of what people without medical insurance or adequate medical insurance face. As Christians we have a responsibility to be our brothers keeper, to care about what happens to others and to support government policy that promotes the health of all of our citizens. Please understand that I believe in hard work, and sacrifice, including sacrifice for needy brothers and sisters, as laying down our lives is part of the narrow path that we must walk.
