Ending Hunger in America, 2014 Hunger Report Full Report | Page 188

CHRISTIAN STUDY GUIDE – 2014 HUNGER REPORT

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SESSION 3: EXPECTATIONS FOR THE COMMON GOOD
The Word
Read Deuteronomy 4:5-8 and Leviticus 19:9-10
Biblical instructions, whether they are the Ten Commandments, the Deuteronomic Code,
or Jesus’ great commandment, often focus on relationships—both relationships between
people and the relationship between people and God. Strong values underlie these rules
and expectations. The passage from the beginning of the fourth chapter of Deuteronomy
is attributed to Moses and takes place just as the Israelites are about to enter the Promised Land after 40 years in the wilderness. Moses articulates the importance of the divinely
revealed Torah—the rule of life for the Israelites. The Leviticus passage offers guidance on
how to live in community. The instruction on gleaning connects holiness with neighborliness—demonstrated by being in relationship with poorer neighbors in ways that enable them
to provide for their households.
1. What values do you see represented in today’s laws and programs that affect hungry and
poor people, and how are these values represented?
2. As a Christian, what values do you think should be reflected in our laws and programs
as they relate to hungry and poor people?

The Issue
Over the years, a number of system-wide investments have been shown to improve living
conditions for everyone. The Hunger Report argues for policies and programs that “lift all
boats.” An adequate minimum wage, investments in infrastructure that also create jobs,
and Social Security are discussed as specific examples of such system-wide efforts. The current minimum wage is not enough to support a family to live, and there is no consensus in
Congress on how to proceed with investments in Social Security or infrastructure. Today,
across-the-board cuts get more attention on Capitol Hill than strategic policies and programs
to solve problems.
1. Read the section entitled “Invest in Infrastructure and Emerging Industries” in
Chapter 1. What public works infrastructure improvements are needed in your community? Who would benefit, directly and indirectly?
2. What is your understanding of the costs and benefits of raising the minimum wage?

178? Christian Study Guide

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Bread for the World Institute