Algonquin Township Trustee Larry Emery made some year-end reflections on his blog, which has permitted me to reprint.
Government, Guidance, and God-Foundation: 1st of a three part series
“For a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders.” Isaiah 9:6
It is said, Jesus is the Reason for the Season. Any simple way to start the explanation or discussion is always helpful for me. The time, place, and situation then should call for a chance to open to the Gospel.
Larry Emery.
I confess, I am not the learned one and have not been very engaged in this when the opportunity arises.
Based on this passage from Isaiah, government has been ordained by God.
The question is how much government and who is directing it.
One verse by Jesus is to “rendered to Caesar what is due Caesar.”
We have a Constitutional Republic that HELPS decide what the amount should be.
The more that all our citizens are educated, engaged, and enthused, the more likely this will be interpreted as fair to
“establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity”
(Preamble to our Constitution of the United States of America).
Remember, the Constitution initial line also includes “a more perfect Union” in its preamble.
The Founding Fathers knew perfection was a goal to strive but only God is perfect.
As 2013 ends, and we embark on the journey of 2014, those in office, please revisit your core beliefs to be aware of the fundamentals being used for work in your profession and your community.
As our local governmental boards are establishing their Levy for 2014, I hope and pray they all look at all options to ask for only what is truly needed, not the “nice to have” that takes the focus off the necessities of life. Doing their due diligence prior to the vote is important and expected.
Their corresponding appropriations plan for their budgets should
“provide adequate resources to fund the budget so that the elected officials can carry out their prescribed duties under the law and achieve the goals of the township’s strategic plan.”
(Trustees’ Operation Manual for Townships Revised 2013).
Please be creative to accomplish this task for our citizens.
From Liberal to Libertarian, a common ground must be established.
To much that has been given, much will be required.
Until the Big Guy takes over, this can not happen: “From Liberal to Libertarian, a common ground must be established.” Humans are not a perfect species.
Humans have “free will” and the Big Guy sits out there every day laughing at our stupid activities.
Maybe it is not as much as laughing at the stupidity of an adult but sighing from the ignorance of his children. In America, we have the freedom to succeed and to fail. It is a two edge sword when we make bad choices and hurt others with this freedom.
This unfortunately is done knowingly, unintentionally, or through this ignorance.
We all should help with our time, talents, and treasures when the opportunity is given to us.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all.