Are you sure?
This bookmark will be removed from all folders and any saved notes will be permanently removed.
Eye on the World: The "fiscal cliff"
Late in the day on January 1, the US Congress passed compromise legislation to avert the “fiscal cliff” of broad tax increases and spending cuts that was set to take effect starting that day. The new bill stays tax increases for middle-class Americans while raising rates for the wealthiest earners, although it doesn’t lay out a long-term plan to address the national debt. The bill passed both the Senate and the House by wide margins, as Republicans and Democrats compromised to avoid the potentially devastating “cliff.” US and international markets surged after news of the deal, as investors breathed a sigh of relief that a deal had been reached.
“‘Fiscal cliffs’ and debt ceilings: learning lessons” takes a spiritual look at the difficult politics behind the “fiscal cliff” legislation. It reminds us that our prayers shouldn’t ignore the seriousness of the political challenges being faced, but that spiritual qualities such as honesty, integrity, and humility can guide our thoughts and lead us -- and politicians -- to decisions that bless everyone.
“God is not a Republican, or a Democrat” expands on this line of reasoning, explaining how our prayers can have an uplifting, leavening effect on the political scene -- not by petitioning God for a specific policy outcome, but by recognizing that God governs His creation, maintaining fairness and stability for each of His ideas. Prayer also eases partisan gridlock, by allowing human will to give way to a receptiveness to God’s good will. This kind of humility enables compromise and understanding in government.
Enjoy 1 free Sentinel article or audio program each month, including content from 1898 to today.
