The Gospel of Matthew records, “Jesus went throughout all Galilee, teaching in their synagogues and proclaiming the good news of the kingdom and curing every disease and every sickness among the people” (4:23, NRSV).
Matthew does not say that Jesus cured only a select group of people because they could afford his services. Nope, Jesus was generous with his healthcare, ensuring that no one could be turned away from God’s physical and spiritual grace and salvation.
If only all Christians followed his example.
This week, a winter cold has settled in my head and chest. Between puffing on an inhaler and sipping hot tea with honey, the sounds of a persistent cough echo through my house.
Laying on the couch nestled under a cover, I have been thinking about the modern marvel of healthcare. If some politicians have their way in 2025, though, millions of Americans could face the elimination of healthcare for themselves and their families.
During the 2024 campaign cycle, some Republican lawmakers often spoke about “massive” changes to the Affordable Care Act (ACA). Currently, 21.4 million Americans are enrolled through the exchanges created by the ACA.
According to one article, the Biden Administration made tax insurance credits for the financially disadvantaged more generous through the American Rescue Plan. Since then, enrollment has skyrocketed by 80% from 2021 to 2024.
With a second Trump administration on the way and Republicans gaining control of both Congressional chambers while maintaining a substantial conservative majority on the United States Supreme Court, opponents to the ACA now see a door wide open for significant changes. They can repeal, cancel, or overhaul this popular law among most Americans.
In 2017, during the first Trump administration, the ACA (Obamacare) was saved by one vote in the Senate. Senator John McCain from Arizona, a strong critic of the ACA, joined two other moderate Republicans in voting against its repeal because Republican lawmakers had no viable alternative.
We are now repeating history. However, this time, there is no John McCain or anyone close to having his character standing in the way of repeal.
Sarah Lueck, vice president for health policy at the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities, told NPR last month: “The Republican plans — they don’t say they are going to repeal the ACA, but their collection of policies could amount to the same thing or worse. It could happen through legislation and regulation. We’re on alert for anything and everything. It could take many forms.”
Just last week, a federal court in North Dakota blocked access to the healthcare exchanges for immigrants who came to the U.S. illegally as children, known also as “Dreamers.” While many anti-immigrant proponents celebrated the ruling, others warned that today, it’s the “Dreamers,” but tomorrow, it could be you.
Excuse me while I cough and grab another hit of the inhaler and a spot of tea.
Upon my return, I want to recall the days before the ACA. There was a time when healthcare companies called all the shots, placing riders and denying coverage whenever and wherever they wanted. They could charge exuberant premiums and even higher deductibles, hiding behind the safety and security of unrestrained capitalism.
They could deny coverage to everyday Americans based on preexisting conditions. They could also deny surgeries and medication based on the argument they are not essential care.
Need insulin? Not according to the insurance company.
Does your child need medication for ADHD, depression, or anxiety? Sorry, pull up your bootstraps.
Reverting to the days when insurance companies called all the shots would be immoral and evil. We cannot go backward.
Maybe I will be surprised, though, and Republicans will roll out a version of the ACA, ensuring coverage for even more Americans. Unfortunately, their past comments and actions have not given me much hope. But I am always willing to be surprised!
I began this rant by citing Jesus’s actions in Matthew. Some might be appalled that I included Jesus in a conversation about healthcare. For those critics, please accept this from a pastor’s heart.
Jesus was not an elitist. He was not wealthy. He was not powerful.
Jesus did not believe in free market capitalism. Heck, he wouldn’t have even known what it was back then. Jesus certainly did not know about insurance companies, co-pays, and the Affordable Care Act.
However, Jesus knew the importance of compassionate actions. As he demonstrated repeatedly, those actions would lead to personal and communal behavior.
Jesus did not turn away anyone who needed healing, food, or friendship. He welcomed them and helped them. He cared for and loved them.
This is where we are regarding healthcare in this country. Are we a people who care for others? Are we a people with compassionate hearts? Are we a people willing to watch our fellow humans suffer simply because they lack the resources to get proper healthcare?
Unfortunately, we just might be.
My cough will go away soon because I am part of the privileged who get healthcare through their employer. My privilege should not hinder others from receiving the same quality healthcare.
Critics can argue about the ACA’s advantages and disadvantages, but no one can deny Jesus’ deep compassion for the sick.
America, are we compassionate?