By Bishop Scott Grey, DTh
We did it! We came together as a united front, a chorus of voices demanding justice and compassion. People flooded the White House with calls and emails from every corner of this great nation, and in response, Trump rescinded his order to freeze federal aid. This is a testament to the power of our collective action, echoing the words of Ecclesiastes 4:9, “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labor.”
But let us not be deceived, dear friends. As we celebrate this moment, we must remain vigilant. The fight for righteousness is not over! Just as 1 Peter 5:8 reminds us, “Be sober, be watchful; your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walks around, seeking whom he may devour.” We must be aware that the forces of injustice continue to lurk in the shadows, ready to strike again.
The rescindment of that damaging order might seem like a victory, but we cannot forget those who still suffer under the weight of policies that remain unchanged. Let’s turn our hearts to the marginalized, those still affected by the actions of this administration, particularly those that have not been rescinded. We must remember that while aid to predominantly white nations, such as Israel, flows freely, life-saving medications and humanitarian assistance to our brothers and sisters in predominantly Black countries remain frozen. This is a clear imbalance, one that echoes the words of Proverbs 31:8-9, “Open your mouth for the mute, for the rights of all who are destitute. Open your mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy.”
The recent confusion surrounding federal aid was not merely a bureaucratic hiccup. The initial order from the Office of Management and Budget created chaos and anxiety among lawmakers and state officials. Many were left in the dark, unsure of how to move forward. This turmoil is reminiscent of Psalm 82:3-4, “Defend the weak, the poor, and the fatherless. Maintain the rights of the poor and oppressed. Rescue the weak and needy; deliver them from the hand of the wicked.”
Though the president’s office may have walked back some of its decisions, let us heed the warning of Jeremiah 22:3, “Thus says the Lord: ‘Do justice and righteousness, and deliver the one who has been robbed from the power of his oppressor.’” We must stay alert and engaged, for the same powers that attempted to freeze our progress may come back with new tactics, seeking to undermine the very fabric of our communities.
In this moment of reflection, we must also consider the importance of unity and perseverance. As we continue to advocate for justice, let us hold fast to the message of Romans 12:12, “Rejoicing in hope, persevering in tribulation, devoted to prayer.” Together, we will stand against the tide of injustice and ensure that every voice is heard, every need is met, and every heart is healed.
So let us rise up, not as individuals, but as a mighty collective, committed to the work that lies ahead. Let us be the hands and feet of compassion, extending grace and love to all. For as we strive for justice, we fulfill the call of Micah 6:8, “He has shown you, O man, what is good. And what does the Lord require of you but to do justly, to love mercy, and to walk humbly with your God?”
Together, let us march forward with faith, courage, and unwavering hope, for the journey continues, and our work is just beginning.
Amen.
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