In Scripture charity is no substitute for justice, anymore than ritual, no matter how beautiful. “Take away from me the noise of your songs; to the melody of your hearts, I will not listen. But let justice roll down like mighty waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.”

                                                                                William Sloane Coffin

Prayers, poems and promises, and even tears of compassion are no substitute for doing what is right for the poor and hungry. Getting serious in helping the hungry means seeking justice on their behalf. It’s a radical step few are willing or able to take. But, until we do we are treating cancer with bandaids.

The world is equally shocked by two things, according to Elton Trueblood; one is hearing Christianity criticized. The second is seeing it practiced. Seeking justice for the poor and hungry is radical faithfulness. It is Christianity as it’s meant to be practiced. It means we start doing our faith and not just talking about it.