While much of the world has been concerned about shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a quieter but just as serious problem for the cost of food resulted from a dry winter across the American Midwest, our breadbasket. Changes in climate patterns, which the government continues to deny are happening, will make for hard farming.
In addition, family farms, which were buttressed by a Biden-era program designed to protect family farms and underrepresented farmers, was axed by USDA, opening the way for even more corporate farming interests, largely responsible for a sizeable carbon footprint. Big agriculture is a powerful lobbying interest in Washington.
USDA’s land conservation staff was among the chief group cut from programs. So we end up with corporate interests managing the food we buy, and it will cost more, to be sure. Unchecked corporate power is squeezing out family farms by controlling not just the land but the costs in farming, such as fertilizer and seeds. Something to think about on this lovely spring morning.
Prayer for the Day
Creator of the mountains and valleys, the seas and dry land,
We listen to the sounds of your world holding them deep in our hearts;
May they be sustenance for our souls and a promise for the future
As we strive to protect the earth you created.
Be with us, O God, as we seek to hold fast to your Word
So we may be faithful servants in this time and this place.
In the name of the One who is our sustenance,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
By now the dominant emotion when we deal with climate change is some combination of fear and shame. Having been warned by scientists, we didn’t do anything.
Bill McKibben, climate activist
Our food system belongs in the hands of family farmers, not under the control of a handful of corporations.
Willie Nelson, Farm Aid founder and president of the board
Moreover, by them is your servant warned; in keeping them there is great reward.
But who can detect their errors? Clear me from hidden faults.
Keep back your servant from the insolent; do not let them have dominion over me;
Then I shall be blameless and innocent of great transgressions.
Psalm 19: 11-13