What applies to individuals can also apply to nations. I have "earned" little money in my lifetime. My father's wealth has enabled me to live a simple life by choice. I was very much touched by Andrew's quote from St. Ambrose, especially that "far from giving lavishly, you are paying part of your debt". There is no merit in me that I should have wealth while another lives in poverty. I share now as a way of "paying my debt", not only to the poor, but to God ... my debt of gratitude and love.
How much more should rich nations share their wealth with nations mired in extreme poverty by "tragic historical events"? This is the arena where Catholic activists can find themselves deeply involved, advocating for human rights protection and fair trade policy.
JPIC
