the following quote by Leslie J. Hoppe is just so provoking and challenging!

“the prophets… did not regard poverty as the result of chance, destiny or laziness. Poverty was simply the creation of the rich who have broken the covenant because of their greed. The wealthy used their abilities and resources not to enhance the community but to support their own purpose. In this way they violated the covenant, they destroyed the unity of Israel and called forth divine judgement.”