Counsels on Social Issue

Counsel #12 — Bridging The Gap

Picture: Counsel #12 — Bridging The Gap CSI 14.1

The disparity between poor and rich is vast and ever-growing. The number of homeless people is rising. Unemployment rates run rampant. Many destitute families have both parents working outside of the home — sometimes two or three jobs just to survive. And the family with one parent hardly stands a chance! Unfortunate life circumstances often leave many with less than nothing. Interestingly, Scripture contains several provisions to ensure economic justice, such as the Jubilee Year, where debts were to be forgiven and land purchased to cover debts was returned to its original owner. What might such provisions look like in our present time and place? CSI 14.2

For young adults just starting out, imagine how helpful it would be if the collegiate educational system’s financial structure was equitably adjusted. It would go a long way to bridging the gap if student loans were pardoned! In what other ways could the gap be bridged between extreme poverty and extreme wealth?^[30] CSI 14.3

"But in the seventh year, the land is to have a year of sabbath rest, a sabbath to the Lord." Leviticus 25:4 NIV CSI 14.4

“The Pharisees and Sadducees despised the poor. The learned and rich neglected them, as though their wealth and knowledge made them of more value than those who were poor. But Jesus declared that it was His work to give encouragement and comfort and help where it was most needed.” Ellen White in Letters and Manuscripts, vol. 13, Manuscript 65b, 1898, par. 2 CSI 14.5

Reflect: Do you see disparity in society? What suggestions do you have to assist in bridging those gaps? CSI 14.6