McKinley United Methodist Church
Winona MN

Yesterday I began the day apprehensive of  President Trump’s  Inauguration and second term of office. Having lived through his first term, I was wary of the second. In the space of four years, I was often at odds with policies, especially around the immigrant community.

If yesterday, I started the day with apprehension for what a second presidency would do and be, I ended the day in despair. Executive orders pulling us out of the Paris Climate Accord, the World Health Organization, attempting to end Birthright Citizenship, removing the goal of lower drug prices, and an active persecution of the immigrant community, troubles my soul. I worry about my children and grandchildren, and the kind of society we are building for them. I ache for the pain ahead for people targeted by this Administration.

While many are celebrating those executive orders, there are an equal number of us mourning and in grief, over the consequences of them. I find it hard to trust President Trump’s good intentions for all of our citizens.

In a very different Inaugural sermon by  Jesus,  he quoted from  Isaiah 61, announcing his intention: 

“The Spirit of the Lord is upon me,
because he has anointed me
to bring good news to the poor.
He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives
and recovery of sight to the blind,
to set free those who are oppressed,
to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favor.” Luke 4:18-19

Jesus’ expressed concern was a focus on the poor, the abused,  the outcast, the oppressed, the sick, and those misused by society. Jesus was concerned about the needs of  people living on the edge and  those who had little to work with.  He insisted that each of us be concerned as well. 

Today, as I look ahead, I believe our call as Christians  is to defend human dignity for all God’s people, and work passionately for justice.

‘Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did it to me.” Matthew 25:40