Are you sure?
This bookmark will be removed from all folders and any saved notes will be permanently removed.
Eye on the World: government shutdown
The United States government shut down this week due to Congressional disagreement over next year’s spending bill. At the heart of the disagreement is the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, a piece of healthcare legislation that was one of the signatures of President Barack Obama’s first term in office. Republicans in Congress want the spending bill to include language that either delays or changes the healthcare law; Democrats want to keep the law as it is. When Congress failed to reach an agreement, the government shut down — halting federal programs and furloughing 800,000 civilian employees. It will reopen when lawmakers can negotiate a compromise on the spending bill. The last government shutdown occurred in late 1995, and lasted for 21 days.
Regardless of our political leanings, we can each play a role in promoting honest, responsible government in the US and elsewhere. Our prayers can reveal common ground shared by lawmakers, and bring to light creative solutions that bless everyone.
A good place to start is by remembering that regardless of who’s in the Oval Office or on Capitol Hill, God is always governing His creation. “Prayer during a government shutdown” urges us to affirm the presence and power of God, and to remember that His government is always active, each day and each moment.
Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.
