Aug 20 Thought for Reflection
Dear Holy Covenant Community,
Affordable access to quality healthcare is an urgent need for millions in this country. The debate over healthcare legislation is raging, from town hall meetings to dinner tables, White House Press Conferences to conversations with coworkers. Healthcare reform is complex and political; it’s difficult to sort out facts and next steps. Even when we follow the debates and legislation closely, it can be hard to know the right course of action. However, as people of faith, we do know that God calls on us to care for all of creation, especially those without power and access to justice.
Jesus’ message is clear:
“I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” John 10:10
Through Jesus Christ, we know full life and are called to advocate for fullness of life for all. The United Methodist Church believes that healthcare is a basic human right that must be available to all. In the midst of all the information out there, it is helpful to have our faith community, and our denomination, as a resource. There is an excellent website sponsored by the General Board of Church and Society of The United Methodist Church:
This site gives biblical and theological contexts for healthcare, United Methodist positions, and tangible ways we can move our faith into action. For example, this week’s action helps us send postcards to members of congress sharing our stories. I encourage you to visit this site as a valuable resource from a faith-based perspective.
As this country moves towards healthcare reform, may we all continue to educate ourselves and advocate for the least of these. Let’s all be in prayer for our leaders, policy-makers, and those who live each day without adequate access to healthcare. May our prayers center us in God’s love, which wills abundant life for each and every person.
Grace and Peace,
Kate
