Do you ever wonder whether Jesus, while walking towards Jerusalem and passing signs of Roman brutal rule, felt at least a twinge of fear? He must’ve, as he saw the tax collectors and soldiers stripping the local population bare.
Granted, we don’t have roads filled with literal crosses, but the new regime is certainly intent on at least symbolically crucifying those it sees as enemies, otherwise known as persons who oppose its policies. One of its latest attacks is on libraries. After all, if people read, they might begin to think.
Now on the chopping block is a small agency, the Institute of Museums and Library Services which was until this week the largest source of funding for the many small local museums and libraries. But what else would you expect from a man who can’t tell whether a Bible is being held right side up?
Prayer for the Day
As storms rage about us, we fear our ship will take on water
For we are often unable to see through the mist of our daily lives;
As the sky shakes with thunder and we find ourselves overwhelmed,
Brace us, give us strength, enabling the sun to break through the clouds.
Be as a buttress in this time that now demands so much of us,
And anchor us so we do not capsize and drown in the raging sea.
In the name of the One who is our anchor,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
There are many people who cannot afford Internet access in their homes. And they rely upon their local public library to be able to access Internet services, so that they can apply for jobs and benefits, so that they can even have access to telehealth appointments with their health care provider.
Cindy Hohl, President, American Library Association
Congress created this federal block grant program to support and extend library services in all the states through the state libraries. While other grant programs within IMLS are discretionary, the Grants to States program is written as a “shall”
Statement by EveryLibrary
To you then, O monarchs, my words are directed,
So that you may learn wisdom and not transgress.
For they will be made holy who observe holy things in holiness,
And those who have been taught them will find a defense.
Wisdom of Solomon 6: 9-11