Cease fires are strange agreements. Even though there is a cease-fire deal that will take effect on Sunday, the Israeli government is still bombing – and killing – sort of a final 1-2 punch. And there is the ominous phrase, certain details need to be worked out, which means what? And there is still ongoing violence in the West Bank.
In his farewell address, President Biden updated Eisenhower’s warning of a military industrial complex to a wealth industrial complex and the abuse of power it can create, by eroding the “the sense of purpose and common unity” we should have. The threats to democracy at home are as real as they are abroad.
Jefferson wrote, “I tremble for my nation when I remember God is just.” As we begin to enter a new era, we should tremble when the power of wealth becomes the overriding basis of political decision-making and threats of retribution make people cower. The message was a warning that we must stand vigilant and unafraid, not just for ourselves but for our future as a Nation and society.
Prayer for the Day
Lord, although we are a mighty empire, proud of our arms and wealth,
They are not signs of righteousness in your sight,
Stunting our hearts and blinding our spirits.
Move us this day to move for real independence,
Opening our eyes to our self-imposed shackles
So we rip asunder the veil of our temple fortress.
Stir our hearts so we seek vulnerability rather than power,
Service rather than dominion and peace rather than war.
Reconciliation rather than pre-emption.
In the name of the One who calls us to embrace your Kingdom,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
Because power corrupts, society’s demand for moral authority and character increase as the importance of the position increases.
John Adams, founder, President (1735-1826)
Without strong watchdog institutions, impunity becomes the very foundation upon which systems of corruption are built. And if impunity is not demolished, all efforts to bring an end to corruption are in vain.
Rigoberta Menchú, human rights advocate, Nobel Prize laureate
Restore us O God; let your face shine, that we may be saved.
Psalm 80 3