I’ve heard a lot of “what on earth can we do?” lately. A recent Gospel lesson from Luke reminded us that actions speak much louder than thoughts/words and gave us direction as to how we are to live as God’s people and followers of Jesus. (I’ve also been doing some 4-H history work recently and was reminded of the pledge of head, heart, hands and health.)
So, what do we DO today as people concerned about recent federal cuts which cause and aggravate hunger for so many people? What does it mean for us when AID and USDA funds and personnel have been impacted? What has happened to the food stacked up waiting to be shared with hungry tummies of children? What about the underground schools in Ukraine (built with ELCA funding through Lutheran World Federation) where children are not only educated but fed? What about sustainability and development projects in countries where drought is increasing? What about farmers in the U.S. who are unsure if their crops will continue to be used as foreign aid — or if their loans will be reimbursed as promised?
We CAN and MUST show our Christian love and commitment through our actions. We are called for this time to be in touch with our legislators at the federal level to voice our concern — and ask them for action. We can speak as people of faith and speak on behalf of others who are experiencing hunger and uncertainty because of federal actions. We can and must hold our legislators responsible for decisions OR indecision.
Many of us have legislators who are supportive and who have taken stands in opposition to cuts/stoppages in federal programs. We need to be sure they hear words of gratitude from us. Others of us have legislators who have not uttered a peep as harm has been done to programs and people around the globe. They need to hear our dismay and our concern. Letters, phone calls, e-mails, texts and visits to offices and town hall events are all crucial ways of communicating. Find one or more that works for you.
We DO have voices and our actions do speak louder than simply our words in conversation with others who think as we do. We need to take action often and repeatedly. And we need to continue to pray, not only for those who lives are impacted but for wisdom for our legislators and decision-makers. It is our call from our God.
Vernita Kennen
Incarnation, Shoreview
