Category: What’s Up!

  • A Troubled Nation Under Incompetent Leadership: A Biblical Reflection on Pete Hegseth’s Appointment as Secretary of Defense!

    America, a nation endowed with extraordinary blessings and potential, stands at a pivotal moment in its history. The confirmation of Pete Hegseth as Secretary of Defense has amplified fears about the nation’s direction under leadership that prioritizes partisanship over competence. His record of questionable judgment, lack of experience in managing defense systems, and neglect of critical national security priorities exposes the country to unnecessary risks in an increasingly perilous world.

    Senate Republicans, entrusted with the responsibility to vet nominees for such consequential roles, all but three failed to rise to the occasion. By confirming an unqualified individual, they ignored their sacred duty to protect the nation and its people. Proverbs 31:8-9 reminds us of this responsibility: “Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” In failing to uphold this standard, they have left America more vulnerable, betraying the trust placed in them by their constituents.

    The Incompetence of Pete Hegseth!

    Leadership in defense demands wisdom, strategic vision, and a deep understanding of global dynamics—qualities Pete Hegseth has yet to demonstrate. His history as a television commentator, alcohol and woman abuser, and partisan figure reveals a focus on ideology over substance. His dismissive attitude toward critical issues such as cybersecurity, military readiness, women in the military and alliances undermines America’s ability to address modern threats. Alienating allies and ignoring the complexities of diplomacy only weakens the nation’s position on the global stage.

    Equally troubling is Hegseth’s neglect of the well-being of service members. His opposition to reforms addressing mental health, housing, and healthcare for veterans reflects a misunderstanding of the sacred trust placed in his office. As Jesus teaches in Luke 12:48, “To whom much is given, much will be required.” Leadership is not a platform for personal ambition but a profound responsibility to serve others with humility and care.

    The Failure of Senate Republicans!

    The Senate’s role in confirming nominees is to act as a safeguard against poor leadership, yet the majority of Senate Republicans abdicated this responsibility. Despite bipartisan concerns over Hegseth’s qualifications, they chose political loyalty over national security. James 4:17 declares, “If anyone, then, knows the good they ought to do and doesn’t do it, it is sin.”By ignoring their moral obligation, they have contributed to a weakening of the nation’s defense and undermined trust in the institutions meant to uphold accountability.

    This failure is not merely a political misstep but a moral failing, revealing the dangers of placing expediency above the common good. Leadership demands courage and conviction, qualities that were absent when they voted to confirm a nominee unfit for the role.

    A Call to Action!

    In moments like these, Christians are called to action—through prayer, advocacy, and steadfast commitment to justice. First Timothy 2:1-2 reminds us: “I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.” While we lament the decisions of those in power, we must also pray for them, asking God to guide their hearts and grant them wisdom for the purpose of protecting America.

    But prayer must be accompanied by action. As citizens, we are called to hold our leaders accountable, demanding that they act with integrity and prioritize the common good. Matthew 5:13-16 reminds us to be salt and light in the world, standing firm for justice and righteousness. Advocacy for competent, ethical leadership is not only a civic duty but a moral imperative.

    Conclusion!

    America’s greatness has always been rooted in its commitment to justice, integrity, and accountability. The confirmation of an unqualified Secretary of Defense represents a profound challenge to these principles. Yet, even in times of uncertainty, we are reminded of God’s sovereignty and the potential for renewal through faith and action.

    Let us recommit to seeking God’s guidance, standing for truth, and striving to ensure our leaders are equipped to protect the nation wisely. As Proverbs 29:2 teaches us, “When the righteous increase, the people rejoice, but when the wicked rule, the people groan.” May we work toward a future where righteousness prevails, and America fulfills its calling as a beacon of hope, strength, and justice.

  • What happened to Ashley Babbitt at the Capitol on January 21, 2021?


    Ashley Babbitt was fatally shot by a Capitol Police officer during the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots. Babbitt, a 35-year-old Air Force veteran, was among a group of insurrectionists attempting to breach the Speaker’s Lobby, a secure area near the House chamber. Babbitt attempted to climb through a broken window of a barricaded door when an officer, who had been stationed in that location to protect members of Congress and staff, fired a single shot, striking her in the shoulder.

    She later died from her injuries. The Department of Justice later determined that the officer acted lawfully and within their duties to protect lawmakers and staff during the violent insurrection. The incident remains a focal point of misinformation about the events of January 6 and has been a polarizing topic in American politics. 

    Specifically, Babbitt was part of a group of rioters that breached the U.S. Capitol on January 6, 2021. While she was not formally charged with a crime since she was killed during the event, her actions, including entering the Capitol building and attempting to climb through a broken window leading to the Speaker’s Lobby, were part of the broader illegal activities that day.

    Had she been charged, her actions could have been classified as felonies including:

    1. Entering and Remaining in a Restricted Building or Grounds (18 U.S.C. § 1752): Trespassing in a restricted area, particularly one secured by the Secret Service or designated for official government business.

    2. Obstruction of an Official Proceeding (18 U.S.C. § 1512): Interfering with Congress’s certification of the Electoral College vote.

    3. Destruction of Property (18 U.S.C. § 1361): Damage to government property if proven she participated or encouraged others in breaking windows or doors.

  • WHAT TRUMP WILL INHERIT ON JANUARY 20, 2025

    President Joe Biden’s accomplishments, which will be inherited and leveraged by Trump, include significant legislative and policy achievements across various domains. Here are some key areas that Trump will take credit for:

    1. Economic Recovery and Jobs Growth•Post-Pandemic Recovery: Biden oversaw a strong economic rebound following the COVID-19 pandemic, with record job creation and a declining unemployment rate.

    •Infrastructure Investment: The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law allocated $1.2 trillion for modernizing roads, bridges, broadband, and clean water systems.

    •CHIPS and Science Act: Aimed to boost domestic semiconductor manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign supply chains.

    •Inflation Reduction Act (IRA): Focused on clean energy investments, healthcare cost reductions, and tax reforms targeting corporate entities.

    2. Climate and Energy Policies

    •Climate Action: The IRA represents the largest climate investment in U.S. history, targeting a 40% reduction in emissions by 2030.

    •Renewable Energy Expansion: Substantial incentives for solar, wind, and electric vehicle industries.

    3. Global Diplomacy and Leadership

    •Strengthening NATO: Biden played a crucial role in rallying NATO allies in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

    •Support for Ukraine: Financial and military aid reinforced the U.S. commitment to democracy abroad.

    •Rebuilding Alliances: A focus on multilateral diplomacy, particularly with Europe and the Indo-Pacific region.

    4. Social and Healthcare Initiatives

    •Affordable Healthcare: Enhanced subsidies under the Affordable Care Act, ensuring coverage for millions.

    •Prescription Drug Reform: Caps on insulin prices and Medicare’s ability to negotiate drug prices.

    •Student Debt Relief Efforts: Although partially blocked, Biden advanced initiatives to alleviate student loan burdens.

    5. Judicial and Civil Rights Legacy

    •Judicial Appointments: Record appointments of diverse federal judges, including the first Black woman on the Supreme Court, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson.

    •Advancing Equality: Executive orders addressing racial equity, LGBTQ+ rights, and women’s health protections.

    6. Technology and Innovation

    •Broadband Expansion: Investments to bridge the digital divide in rural and underserved communities.

    •Tech Competition: Efforts to address antitrust issues in the tech sector and promote competition.

    These accomplishments will shape the landscape for the Trump administration, influencing domestic and international policies. Whether Trump builds on or redirects these achievements will depend on his priorities and governing approach.