In Jesus' first sermon he quotes from the scroll of the Prophet Isaiah saying: "the Most High has anointed me to bring Good News to those who are poor." Here, Jesus makes clear the about the focus and nature of his ministry. Today we looked at some current events and policy decisions and ask if they are good news for the poor.

For instance, are fair wages for workers good news for the poor? YES! Yet, the federal minimum wage of $7.25 was last raised in 2009 - 17 years ago.  A person working at that level would have to work 120 hours per week - the equivalent of 3 full-time jobs - to make the required average living wage of $22.95/hour for a single adult with no children. 

If "It" (whatever the it happens to be) is not good news for the poor than it is not good news. And if it is not Good News than it is not the Gospel.