I just paid my taxes, and it makes me angry to see all the churches, charities and other organizations that don't pay a cent in taxes, while I have to pay until it hurts. They ought to pay their fair share just like everyone else. I know you don't agree, but that's my position. — M.H.

Elsewhere in your letter, you mention that you never give any money to these organizations -- but would you do so if they did pay taxes? I doubt it -- and the reason, I suspect, is because you're only interested in your own pocketbook. But others do give to such groups; Americans as a whole are a very generous people. And the reason they give is because they realize that our society would be in great difficulty if it weren't for the work our churches and charities do to make our world a better place. If all the food banks, homeless shelters, hospitals, community centers, addiction rehabilitation centers and countless other enterprises run by churches and charities were forced to close, millions of lives would be hurt. And if they did close, governmental agencies would be forced to fill the gap -- at enormous cost to you and every other taxpayer.

No system is perfect, but I urge you not to turn a blind eye to the good done by the vast number of churches and other organizations who are sincerely seeking to serve others. Christians take seriously Jesus' command: "Love your neighbor as yourself" (Matthew 22:39). But your real problem, I suspect, is that you've allowed your love of money to rule your life. My prayer is that you will face this honestly, and turn instead to Christ for the forgiveness and new life you need.