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Lauren W. Reliford As lawmakers on Capitol Hill argue about the national debt, the Bible verse that’s been on my mind is Proverbs 3:27: “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” When it comes to the debt ceiling, or the legal limit the U.S. is allowed to borrow to pay back our expenses, people aren’t really getting the truth. According to House Republicans, it’s only “fiscally responsible” to raise the debt ceiling alongside federal spending cuts to federal programs that benefit low-income Americans. Of course, these legislators wouldn’t say they’re targeting poor folks; instead, they talk about the importance of adding increased “work requirements” to social safety net programs so that people get “back to work” (never mind that the U.S. already has the lowest unemployment rate in 53 years). In fact, both Republicans and some Democrats have long claimed that giving money to low-income Americans through programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), which helps millions of low-income households buy food, without requiring them to work discourages them from getting jobs and creates a burden for U.S. taxpayers. But here’s the thing: That’s not true.
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Our Latest Legislating the Ten Commandments Isn’t the Same as Keeping Them (by JR. Forasteros) What would happen if the Ten Commandments were posted by legal mandate in schools? What Distinguishes YHWH From the Destructive Gods of Marvel? (by JR. Forasteros) In Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3, we meet a creative, wrathful god. Sound familiar? Immigration Activists Push the Boundaries of Religious Freedom (by Laura E. Alexander) What happens when caring for the stranger comes into conflict with government policy? Jesus Meets Sentient AI in ‘Mrs. Davis’ (by Sarah Vincent) The new TV show from Peacock uses absurdity and genuine religiosity to tackle deep questions about faith and technology. |
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From the Magazine Why Is the U.S. Giving the Philippines' Military a Blank Check? (by Eric Stoner) Religious leaders argue that increased U.S. funding and military presence stoke human rights abuses and regional instability. |
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Progressive, Vibrant, Creative, Justice-Minded Church Seeking Lead Pastor Seeking a full-time pastor to provide engaging pastoral and prophetic preaching, compassionate pastoral care, strong leadership in our community service and social justice efforts, guidance for staff, and a great sense of humor! Apply by sending your resume/profile, statement of faith, and cover letter to searchcallcucc@gmail.com. MCC seeks Director of global service learning opportunities Support MCC’s Young Adult programming and other short-term learning opportunities as the next Global Service Learning Director. Overseeing program placements in peacebuilding and development fields. Apply online by May 29. Sojourners community subscriptions now available! Explore current issues of faith, social justice, politics, and culture with your community. Sojourners offers commentary and feature articles that are sure to spark great conversation. Sojourners magazine is great for Bible studies or small groups, and is the perfect way to introduce your congregation to social justice issues. |
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