I was watching a documentary on the history of America. A well done documentary it is as well. Encapsulating the development of the nation from its Independence to Barack Obama’s Presidency.
Whilst covering the post war years, a comment was made that made my blood run cold. In passing, the commentator, who as is the deal goes is given to hyperbole states that between 1945 and 1996 the US spent 5.5 trillion dollars on developing nuclear capacity. I cannot tell you how apoplectic I went on hearing that. Consider with me the amount of countries that could have been supported by the generosity of the Superpower of the time if rather than seeking to reassert its authority by the threat of violence.
The issue is not just the vast amounts of money investing in equipment meant for violence and harm and was never used. The issue is the priority we place on life or on the protection of our reputation. So much invested in the cause of maintaining a status quo whether that is cloaked in terms like ‘homeland security’ or ‘defending our freedoms’ it is just so sad when the actual defence of freedom is found not in the weapons of warfare but in the tools of peacemaking.
My point is not one decrying the state’s responsibility to be well-armed. There’s little I could ever say to convince the state of the merits of pacifism and taking Jesus’s suggestions at the state level. My point is to weep and mourn not just about the US and billions diverted from the poor and need, but weep and mourn at the 1’s, 10’s and hundreds wasted on self-gratification rather than building peace with the neighbours I see. Weep and mourn at how this is symptomatic of the human condition.
Weep and mourn … then consider again how our money is used to glorify God. For as long as the justice of God remains someone will be held accountable.
For His Name’s Sake
Shalom
dmcd
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