I believe that a Christian nation is judged by the way it treats those of its members who are least able to care for their own health and welfare.

On this basis, I ask President Barack Obama to stick to his guns in having those who are doing very well financially in our country share in the sacrifices needed to balance our national budget.

The facts indicate an ever-widening gap between the very wealthy and the rest of us, both middle class and the poor. To realize this is not to advocate class warfare, just to recognize class imbalance. It flies in the face of the Gospels to cut the very programs that provide for basic health, such as Medicare and Medicaid, especially for those in need.

Let’s have a truly shared sacrifice in meeting this budget crisis.

The Rev. James L. Gill, East Winthrop