Because of the great harm inflicted by COVID-19 on poor and hurting people, the government has again come to the aid of its citizens. When it comes to wealth, there are at least three levels: the rich, those who have just enough to live on, and the poor and hurting. With these relief checks, the rich and those who have enough to live on are given a choice. Should the checks be used for ourselves or forwarded to organizations providing relief to the really hurting? From one end of Scripture to the other, we find that God loves the poor and has instructed us to do the same. “If there is among you anyone in need, . . . do not be hard-hearted or tight-fisted” (Deuteronomy 15:7). Jesus instructed us to love our neighbors as ourselves. Love is not mere inner emotion; it is justice in action that motivates us to be generous, cheerful givers.

Eugene Souder, Harrisonburg, Va.