While we were all caught up in the weekend’s celebrations of our founding as a Nation, the rest of the world kept spinning along. Indeed, other events also occurred here at home. Over the weekend, not only did the President pardon six people who installed fraudulent devices on cars to circumvent a clean air act from 1963, but also others who defrauded seniors from their retirement funds and a major donor. But the Supremes have ruled that’s not a bribe.
Not only can we look forward to dirtier air and water, in response to executive orders, the Nuclear Regulatory Commission is modifying its radiation safety rules in order to spur the construction of more nuclear power reactors.
Then there’s the refusal to give both New York and Colorado disaster declarations, as punishment for voting Democratic in the last election. Let’s see, what were those grievances against George III? Those who would be kings should take some lessons from the past.
Prayer for the Day
Like the Psalmist we cry, how long, O Lord, how long?
Wondering what comes next for our country;
Renew our spirits, O God, and give us strength
To speak truth in a time of despair.
Open our hearts and minds to seek your guidance
And empower us to act as your disciples.
In the name of the One who is our model,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amen.
Thoughts for the Day
The chances of factual truth surviving the onslaught of power are very slim indeed; it is always in danger of being maneuvered out of the world not only for a time but, potentially, forever.
Hannah Arendt, writer on political power (1906-1975)
Truth is divine action entering our lives and creating the human action of liberation.
James Cone, American theologian (1938-2018)
Protect me, O God, for in you I take refuge;
I say to the Lord, “You are my Lord; I have no good apart from you.”
Psalm 17: 1-2