The numbers keep rising, now more than 22,255 cases in our state, 19 per cent more than the previous day. State Health Commissioner Judith Persichilli believes the rise is due to two factors: first, we are just getting close to the 14-day period after the Governor’s Stay-At-Home order on March 21, and, second, the fact that more people are being tested. But still, the numbers are sobering and they give us pause.
In spite of all the media attention to Covid–19, the earth still orbits the sun, and we have a major winning case for the environment. Remember the environment? On Monday the U.S. Supreme Court ruled 7–2 that Citgo must pay for cleaning up the massive 2004 oil spill that occurred in the Delaware River pouring 265,000 gallons of crude oil into the water and onto the shore.
It only took 16 years of wrangling through the courts, but at least there is one small victory for those of us who look forward to the day when we have less dependence on fossil fuels. As we go through our dark visions of what could happen to us or the ones we love, let us take heart that in this case the Court has brought big power to heel.
Prayer for the Day
Holy Creator, as we consider the storms we endure,
Let us take heart that we are not always powerless,
Even as we know it is your power that is our ultimate help
Help us be humble even as we pursue justice for the earth.
Broaden our concept of community to include all those who suffer,
And encourage us to live for people rather than for profit,
As we are called to live for others by the One we follow,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen
Thoughts for the Day
I love to think of nature as an unlimited broadcasting station through which God speaks to us every hour, if we will only tune in.
- George Washington Carver (1860s–1943)
We shall awaken from our dullness and rise vigorously toward justice. If we fall in love with creation deeper and deeper, we will respond to its endangerment with passion.
- Hildegard of Bingen (1098–1179)
Not to us, O Lord, not to us, but to your name give glory, for the sake of your steadfast love and your faithfulness.
Psalm 115: 1