No, this is definitely not a joke. First up, read this BBC News report about Archbishop Vincent Nicholls [Roman Catholic], and the link to Archbishop Justin Welby [Anglican] . Then read this blogpost, by Jim Gordon [Baptist]. Finally, read the words of the prophet Amos [Jew]
You levy a straw tax on the poor, and impose a tax on their grain. Therefore, though you have built stone mansions, you will not live in them; though you have planted lush vineyards, you will not drink their wine.
For I know how many are your offences and how great your sins.
There are those who oppress the innocent and take bribes, and deprive the poor of justice in the courts. Therefore the prudent keep quiet in such times, for the times are evil.
Seek good, not evil, that you may live. Then the Lord God Almighty will be with you, just as you say he is.
Hate evil, love good; maintain justice in the courts. Perhaps the Lord God Almighty will have mercy on the remnant of Joseph. [from Amos chapter 5]
I do not feel the need to rant further - these wise men of faith have said it all far more eloquently than I can.
Well quoted, Angela.
ReplyDeleteHear hear.
ReplyDeleteI feel so ashamed in this country when there are people who are forced to rely on bags of donated food to keep body and soul together. There is a food bank beside me that my neighbour volunteers at and it is utterly shameful what these 'reforms' have done as I thought this kind of thing was eradicated 60yrs ago.
ReplyDeleteAbusers of the system should be rooted out mercilessly but we should not be castigating everyone and treating them with immense suspicion.
A very emotive subject which would take longer than a comment to respond to. I was listening to Radio Scotland this morning and they were advertising a new book entitled 'Archbishop' written by a female author whose name escapes me now. It's set in 2020 and is about the first appointed female Archbishop. Thought it might be of interest to you. Have a good week, Angela. x
ReplyDeleteThanks for this - I have googled, and discovered it is by Michelle Guinness. She's a gifted writer [and Jewish by birth] I shall definitely look out for this one, sounds like it may be a good read. Enjoy YOUR week too!!
DeleteWhat a mess our country is in. We seem to be going backwards rather than forwards.
ReplyDelete