Thank goodness, it’s a work from home Friday. I can relax and not be bothered. I have to do some online training today, and I’ll probably grade some midterms. Other than that, it should be an easy day. This week has either been incredibly busy or incredibly boring. There hasn’t been much in between. I have a four day weekend at home since we are off Monday for Spring Break.
If you are in the USA, you might have heard about the organization People’s Union USA calling for a nationwide boycott. They want today to be an economic blackout. This movement follows the rollback of diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives at several major companies, including Target, PepsiCo and others. (Coca-Cola and Apple have both refused to rollback DEI initiatives.) The boycott coincides with protests against President Dumbass’s plans to reduce the government workforce and mass firings at federal agencies. The boycott began at midnight last night and will last for 24 hours. During this time, the organization encourages Americans not to buy anything — this includes gas, fast food, or shopping in-store or online at major retailers. If participants need to buy anything, they are encouraged to shop at local and small businesses. Essential items such as medicine, food and emergency supplies can still be bought.
I hope you’ll join in. The thing about boycotts is that if enough people don’t participate, then it won’t be successful. There had to enough of an economic impact to make a difference and to make the point your trying to make. So, please consider following this boycott and only buy locally today.
I am so glad to be back on my regular schedule, and this is my work from home day. Our idiot president said the other day, “Nobody’s going to work from home, they’re going to be going out, they’re gonna play tennis, they’re gonna play golf. They’re gonna do a lot of things—they’re not working.” The reporter who was presenting the story then went on to show the orange asshole playing golf. Just because he doesn’t not actually do any work other than sign executive orders that he didn’t write and make the most idiotic appointments, doesn’t mean that other people who are working from home aren’t doing their job. Most days that I’m working from home, I get more accomplished than when I’m at the office. No one is there to bother or interrupt me. And besides, the Oval Office, where the president is supposed to actually work is in the White House and is his home. Furthermore, he spends more time at Mar-a-Lago or his other properties than he does at the White House. Our president is the master of projection, which in psychology means a defense mechanism where an individual attributes their own unacceptable thoughts, feelings, and behavior on others. So, if you want to want to know the truth about anything orange slob says, just change the name of whoever he is talking about and replace it with his name. Nothing that ever comes out of his mouth is truthful, and everything is hateful. In one month, he’s done more damage to our country’s democracy than any president in history has done their whole term in office, and we have a depressing 47 more months to go.
Sorry! When I started this post it was supposed to be about the weekend being almost here and getting to enjoy spending the day with Isabella as she supervises me working at my desk. I got a bit sidetracked. I have things to do to prepare for next week. Most of it has to do with the class I’m teaching, but I’m sure other things will come up as well.
Presidents’ Day is often seen as a celebration of leadership, democracy, and the vision of those who have shaped the United States. But for the LGBTQ+ community, this day can carry a more complex meaning. It is both a reminder of how far we have come in the fight for equality and a call to action against the rising tide of fascism threatening our freedoms.
In recent years, far-right politicians have worked aggressively to roll back LGBTQ+ rights, attack transgender individuals, and undermine democracy itself. This Presidents’ Day, we must ask ourselves: What kind of leadership do we truly honor? Do we celebrate those who uphold justice, or do we resist those who seek to oppress?
American history has been shaped by leaders who both upheld and denied justice. While presidents like Abraham Lincoln fought to expand freedom, others have enforced policies that marginalized communities. The LGBTQ+ community has had to fight for every inch of progress—from the Stonewall riots to marriage equality—often against leaders who sought to erase us.
Today, we face new threats. Across the country, lawmakers are banning gender-affirming healthcare, censoring LGBTQ+ history, and criminalizing queer existence. These actions are not just about policy; they are about power, control, and the systematic erasure of marginalized people.
We cannot afford to pretend that what is happening in the U.S. is politics as usual. The rise of authoritarian leaders pushing anti-LGBTQ+ policies is part of a broader attack on democracy itself. Fascism thrives on scapegoating vulnerable groups, restricting freedoms, and silencing dissent. If we do not resist now, the consequences will be catastrophic—not just for LGBTQ+ people but for everyone.
How to Fight Back:
Vote and Mobilize – The LGBTQ+ community and allies must organize, vote in every election, and push for leaders who uphold human rights.
Support LGBTQ+ Organizations – Groups like the Trevor Project, Lambda Legal, and the ACLU are on the front lines, fighting for our rights.
Challenge Hate in Our Communities – Whether in churches, schools, or workplaces, we must speak out against anti-LGBTQ+ rhetoric and policies.
Engage in Peaceful Protest – From Pride marches to demonstrations, public action remains a powerful tool against oppression.
Uplift and Protect One Another – In times of rising hate, mutual aid and community care are essential. No one should have to fight alone.
Presidents’ Day should not just be about honoring the past—it should be about shaping the future. We must demand leaders who fight for justice, not those who spread fear and division. The presidency should be a position of service, not oppression. If those in power refuse to uphold human dignity, then it is our duty to resist them with everything we have.
The LGBTQ+ community has always been resilient. We have survived persecution, discrimination, and violence. And we will continue to fight. Presidents’ Day can be a reminder that leadership is not just about those in office—it’s about all of us, standing together, building a future where love, justice, and equality prevail. This year, let Presidents’ Day be a call to action. The fight is far from over, but we are not alone. Together, we will resist. Together, we will win.
It’s Friday, and I’m back on my regular schedule of working from home today. It is so nice to be able to log into my work computer with my cup of tea in hand, in sweats and a t-shirt, knowing the weekend is just around the corner, and I don’t have to get out in the cold this morning. Working from home is more than just a shift in location, it’s a chance to set the tone for a productive yet relaxed day. It’s easier to focus without the buzz of the office, and the flexibility means I can finally tackle the laundry piling up. Mostly though, I will spend the day preparing for next week’s classes. I’m just glad I can do it while being more relaxed from home.
I feel bad for all the government workers out there who have lost the privilege of working from home. In this first week, the new administration in Washington has already begun to dismantle America, whether it’s revoking job offers and laying off all government employees who have worked less than a year to allowing ICE agents to invade schools to take away students. In the United States, don’t kids have enough to worry about with school shootings and not feeling safe in school, but now worrying that armed agents of the government are going to burst into classrooms and drag them away?
You haven’t heard much about the new administration on this blog because I find it so disheartening and depressing. It’s not like there isn’t a lack of things to say. Since a fascist oligarchy has assumed office on January 20, the new administration has enacted several policies that have raised concerns about the erosion of human rights and democratic principles:
Terminating Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Programs;
Banning non-U.S. flags at embassies preventing the display of flags representing various social movements, such as LGBTQ+ Pride and Black Lives Matter;
Revoking affirmative action policies ending hiring practices that had been in place since 1965 ending attempts to create workplace diversity;
Signing an executive order on “Biological Truth” enforcing a strict male-female binary and disregarding the existence of intersex individuals and transgender individuals;
Attempting to end birthright citizenship, disregarding a key provision of the the definition of a US citizen in the Fourteenth Amendment; and
Erasing transgender rights by halting the issuance of gender-corrected passports and other policies aimed to promote transphobia in the federal government.
Each of these actions have been widely criticized by human rights organizations and advocacy groups as undermining civil liberties and democratic norms. Legal challenges are anticipated as stakeholders seek to uphold protections against discrimination and preserve democratic principles. My fear is that with the current makeup of the Supreme Court, these policies will be upheld no matter how blatantly unconstitutional and undemocratic they are.
On this very cold January 20th (It’s currently 6º F and it will drop to -4º by midnight tonight.), we celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day, honoring the legacy of a man whose fight for justice, equality, and love transformed the world. While Dr. King’s work focused on the Civil Rights Movement and dismantling systemic racism, his message of universal dignity resonates deeply within the LGBTQ+ community.
Dr. King believed in the interconnectedness of all struggles for equality, famously stating, “Injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere.” His words remind us that the fight for LGBTQ+ rights is part of a broader movement for human rights and liberation.
Throughout history, LGBTQ+ activists have drawn inspiration from Dr. King’s nonviolent approach and his unwavering hope for a more just society. Bayard Rustin, one of King’s closest advisors and the chief architect of the 1963 March on Washington, was a gay man who lived his truth despite societal discrimination. Rustin’s vital contributions to the Civil Rights Movement show the shared stakes between racial and LGBTQ+ justice.
On this day, we reflect on how Dr. King’s dream challenges us to continue the work of building a world where everyone is free to love, live, and be their authentic selves. His legacy urges us to fight against hate and discrimination in all its forms and to envision a future rooted in compassion and equality.
As LGBTQ+ individuals and allies, celebrating Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a reminder of the power of solidarity, courage, and the belief that love truly conquers all. Together, we honor his dream by continuing to create a world where everyone can thrive.
***This post is meant to be tongue-in-cheek. Do not take it seriously.***
If you have been following the news in the United States, you have no doubt heard about the drones that are appearing in the skies. If you are not familiar, here is a little background. A large number of mysterious drones have been reported flying over parts of New Jersey and have been spotted in recent days across the eastern U.S., sparking speculation and concern over where they are coming from and why. Dozens of witnesses have reported seeing them in the state since mid-November. At first they were spotted flying along the scenic Raritan River, which feeds the Round Valley Reservoir, the state’s largest aquifer, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) west of New York City. But soon sightings were reported statewide, including near the Picatinny Arsenal, a military research and manufacturing facility, and over President-elect Donald Trump’s golf course in Bedminster. The government has stated that a review of the reported sightings shows that many of them are actually manned aircraft being flown lawfully, echoing the opinion of officials and drone experts. The Homeland Security and the FBI also said in a joint statement they have no evidence that the sightings pose “a national security or public safety threat or have a foreign nexus.”
Conspiracy theories are going wild. Here is my theory: they are a precursor to an alien invasion. If you have read this blog for a while, you no doubt know that I am a fan of science fiction, especially Star Trek. I also find it hard to believe that the people of earth are the only intelligent beings in the universe. Astronomers have discovered planets in the known universe that are in what is known as a “habitable zone,” region around a star where planets can receive the perfect amount of heat to maintain liquid water on their surfaces. The theory being that planets in a habitable zone may also be planets capable of supporting Earth-like extraterrestrial life and intelligence. It’s hard for me to believe that we are the only ones out there. What has not been figured out by scientists on earth is how to bend the laws of physics to allow interstellar space travel like we often see in science fiction. However, that does not mean that someone else out there has evolved enough to make this discovery.
In 1947, the United States Army Air Forces balloon debris recovered near Roswell, New Mexico, was actually a crashed extraterrestrial spacecraft. Operated from the nearby Alamogordo Army Air Field and part of the top secret Project Mogul, the balloon was intended to detect Soviet nuclear tests. After metallic and rubber debris were recovered by Roswell Army Air Field personnel, the United States Army announced their possession of a “flying disc”. This announcement made international headlines but was retracted within a day. To obscure the purpose and source of the debris, the army reported that it was a conventional weather balloon. While this has always been a fun conspiracy theory (though there are those who will believe anything), what if that crashed “weather balloon” was really a crashed extraterrestrial spacecraft? The government and the military has been known to lie to cover up different things, so this could be one of them.
If it was an extraterrestrial spacecraft, why have they not made contact since? It could be that they looked at the geopolitical state of the Earth, the Cold War, and the potential for nuclear war as a reason to “wait and see what happens.” The people of Earth might destroy themselves with nuclear weapons and either make the planet uninhabitable and thus useless or with the advances in technology available to an advanced species, they could rid the planet of deadly radiation and colonize the planet with no resistance. So, they waited. What they saw was a planet of people who were constantly at war, but that one country had developed an overwhelmingly powerful military industrial complex that might be able to make an invasion difficult, but probably not impossible. I am talking about the military industrial complex of the United States here if you had not realized that yet. Then in early November 2024, the country with the greatest military known in human history proved that more than half the country is fucking stupid enough to elect an old, fat, stupid, and senile rapist, convicted felon, and lifetime conman to be the leader of this country. Then they have watched as he appoints people to his government who are drunks, child traffickers, other rapists, and just plain evil/stupid/crazy (use whichever adjective fits) people. They would have realized by now by watching right-wing news media and the Republicans in Congress, that this proposed cabinet and loyal followers this orange idiot who was elected president love conspiracy theories and will get whipped up into hysteria quite easily over nothing. So, by sending a few low tech observation probes to scout the United States, they can get these blithering idiots (and to their surprise and delight there are many Democrats who are also falling for their scheme), they can distract the people of the United States into now seeing the big picture, which has always been apparent throughout the nation’s history.
In other words, if you are going to strike when the iron is hot, defeat them at their lowest weakest moment, NOW is the time to do so. By January 20th, all three branches of the United States government will be controlled by some of the stupidest people to ever exist in the country. These extraterrestrials probably have realized that China could pose a problem but could be dealt with effectively. The country is already ruled by fear and a corrupt government, they could probably be bought off and convinced to surrender because the extraterrestrials would take care of their largest competitor, the United States. Easy-peasy. Hell, COVID-19 could have been their first strike to weaken the planet, and they got lucky (we got unlucky) when stupidity won the 2024 presidential election.
So, the drones could be observation probes sent by extraterrestrials to scout out the planet, or…it could be a group of people who think it’s hilarious to freak out the United States like the so-called “killer clowns” in 2016. Then again, it could be some nefarious foreign government behind the drones. Maybe they started “innocently” by appearing over the Raritan River in New Jersey, then moved onto military complexes, major cities, and an orange idiots golf course. I don’t think they would be gathering intelligence for an invasion, there are much better ways to do that, but they may be scouting potential terrorist targets. A large percentage (though not a voting majority apparently) of the United States and the rest of the world know that form January 20, 2025 until at least January 2027 (if the Democrats are able to take control of Congress in the midterm elections), the United States will be in utter chaos as the patients have been chosen to run the asylum, or more appropriately in this case, the inmates have been given control of not just the prison, but the government as well.
Regardless, the United States us fucked for at least the next two years. Honestly, if there are extraterrestrials scouting out the United States, they have at least proven that they have a far greater intelligence than the inhabitants of Earth and might actually be benevolent beings who could save us all. Live Long and Prosper! 🖖
This post is brought to you by me being bored at work and having too much time for my mind to wonder about senseless things. Luckily, you will be spared another set of similar musings because I will not be at work today and instead will be going to Dartmouth for my next Botox treatment for my migraines.
For many LGBTQ+ individuals, the recent election of Donald Trump in 2024 may feel like a step backward, bringing about complicated emotions and concerns. For those of us who identify as gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender, or queer, this election outcome can be a reminder of the challenges we face in securing lasting acceptance and equality. It may seem hopeless to many of us. I certainly feel that way, but I am trying to find something to be hopeful about in looking towards the future.
The first time Trump was elected, his administration often took stances that left LGBTQ+ people feeling vulnerable. From the debates over protections for LGBTQ+ employees to battles about health care access and the rights of transgender individuals, there was an undercurrent of uncertainty about whether our rights would be respected or reversed, especially with the current makeup of the Supreme Court, which has for several decades mostly protected our rights, but with a majority of ultraconservative justices, our rights are on the line. For some of us, it felt like a time of resilience and strength as we supported one another. But even that resilience can wear thin over time.
Now, in 2024, the news feels overwhelming or even triggering for those who felt we were just beginning to feel secure in our identities or equal in our rights. It’s not uncommon to feel depressed or anxious about what this election means for us and our loved ones. We know that the fight for equality will have to continue in new ways, with new challenges. In this moment, it’s crucial to reach out for support, to find community, and to look after our mental well-being.
For many LGBTQ+ individuals, this election is (or should be) a call to action. It cannot be a time for quiet reflection. We have to be vigilant in our struggle for equality. No matter what, it’s essential to recognize that we’re not alone. There are communities, organizations, and allies ready to stand beside us. Finding hope and comfort in shared spaces, whether online or in person, can help us navigate this complex and sometimes overwhelming time.
And if it seems evil to you to serve the Lord, choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”
—Joshua 24:15
More than half of American voters have chosen to serve the “gods” on the “other side of the River.” They have chosen evil, hatred, and subjugation over goodness, love, and freedom. They have chosen poorly, but “for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” and I hope you will too. Hopefully, time will fly over the next four years, and we will be rid of the orange Mussolini forever. His legacy will likely continue long after he is gone, and things will inevitably get worse before they get better, but we can still believe and fight for democracy.
No country has allowed fascism to be the law of the land forever. It will fail. People will get tired of it when the fascists come for them. Hopefully, the end will come sooner than later. We must believe in God’s plan. My friend Susan said to me on Wednesday after the election, “Before the election, I asked God to please not let this happen. But I also contemplated the fact that if it did, and if it was God’s plan, it may be because things need to get so much worse before the people in this country can find their way out.” I just hope that those of us who sounded the warning call will not suffer too much.
In Joshua 24:15, Joshua, the leader of Israel, challenges the people to choose whom they will serve. In this verse, Joshua is addressing the Israelites as they settle in the Promised Land. The essence of the message is a call to commitment and loyalty. Joshua presents a choice: either continue following the one true God who led them out of Egypt, or turn to other gods and idols, like the ones worshiped by surrounding nations. He makes it clear, however, that his own decision is to serve the Lord.
Joshua asks the people to make a deliberate decision about their faith and values. Rather than following out of tradition or obligation, he urges them to consider carefully and personally whom they are deeply committed to serving. The Bible often addresses the challenge of choice—the decision-making that involves choosing between obedience to God and alternative paths that might seem appealing or easier. Throughout scripture, there is a strong theme of free will and moral responsibility, where individuals and communities are called to make deliberate, faithful choices.
In Deuteronomy 30:19-20, God, through Moses, tells the Israelites, “I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now choose life, so that you and your children may live.” This passage underscores the choice between life (obedience to God) and death (turning away from Him). God urges them to “choose life” as the path of blessing and flourishing. On Tuesday, many Americans, even though they would disagree with me, turned away from God. They chose to follow their own prejudices and vote for a man who professes their hate loudly an unashamedly.
God gives us the freedom to choose right or wrong. In Genesis 2:16-17, while I n the Garden of Eden, God gave Adam and Eve a choice regarding the tree of knowledge of good and evil. This choice tested their obedience and trust in God’s commands. Their decision to eat the forbidden fruit reflects humanity’s capacity for moral choice, with consequences. Paul writes in Romans 6:16, “Don’t you know that when you offer yourselves to someone as obedient slaves, you are slaves of the one you obey?” This passage emphasizes the importance of whom we choose to obey, be it sin leading to death or obedience leading to righteousness. Again, many chose to obey sin, greed, and hate over obedience to God. In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus teaches about the “narrow gate” that leads to life and the “broad road” that leads to destruction. He emphasizes that choosing the path of righteousness is often more challenging but ultimately leads to eternal life.
Paul assures believers in 1 Corinthians 10:13 that God will provide a way out of every temptation, but they must choose to take it. This highlights that while God is present to help, the responsibility of choice remains with us. In Galatians 6:7-8, Paul warns, “Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows.” This principle of sowing and reaping reflects the importance of making wise, faithful choices, as they bear consequences for ourselves and others. Those who voted for Trump on Tuesday made a poor choice that not only will they have to face the consequences of, but we will suffer the same consequences because they were deceived by an egomaniac who strives on the people who worship him. He is not their savior as they claim. He will be their destruction. Jesus says in Matthew 16:24, “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me.” Following Jesus requires a decision to prioritize Him above all else, even when it involves sacrifice.
The Bible’s teachings on choice show that we are empowered to choose our path—God does not force obedience but calls us to a relationship that requires our willing commitment. In the face of competing influences, believers are encouraged to pursue lives of faithfulness, love, and trust in God, understanding that our choices are not just for ourselves but impact others and our relationship with God. The consistent biblical invitation is to choose wisely, aligning one’s heart and actions with God’s will.
Joshua’s statement in Joshua 24:15 emphasizes personal and family commitment. By saying, “as for me and my household,” he demonstrates leadership and integrity, showing that his decision is not dependent on what others choose. The Bible places a high value on commitment and integrity, highlighting these qualities as foundational to a faithful life. Commitment is often seen as unwavering loyalty and dedication to God, while integrity represents honesty, moral consistency, and alignment between belief and behavior. Together, these qualities are essential for living a life that reflects God’s character and commands.
In Matthew 5:37, Jesus says, “Let your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No.’” This teaching emphasizes that people should honor their word, highlighting that commitment in relationships and actions should be truthful and dependable. Proverbs 10:9 says, “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but whoever takes crooked paths will be found out.” This verse underscores the security and trust that comes from a life of integrity, contrasting it with the instability of dishonesty. Many people may be tempted to lose their faith in God or fight fire with fire and insult with insult, but 1 Peter 3:16 encourages believers to “keep a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander.” Maintaining integrity allows Christians to witness to their faith, even when facing criticism or opposition. We must remember this as we deal with those who pervert the words of the Bible to back up their hateful and sinful ways. We cannot stoop to their level. When we look at Donald Trump and his followers, we should remember Proverbs 12:22: “The Lord detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.” God values honesty and trustworthiness, demonstrating that integrity is integral to our character and relationships.
The coming years may be difficult for us to endure, but we must keep our faith despite the challenges. Paul writes in Hebrews 10:23, “Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful,” to encourage believers to remain committed to their faith, trusting that God’s promises are steadfast even in difficult times. James 1:12 says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life.” James shows that commitment and integrity through trials bring rewards, as God honors steadfast faith.
The Bible shows that commitment and integrity are qualities that lead to a life of trust, security, and alignment with God’s will. Commitment involves a deep, unwavering dedication to God, others, and truth, while integrity calls for consistent moral character and honesty. Both are essential for a meaningful relationship with God and an effective witness to others. The Bible teaches that God blesses those who live with integrity and honors their commitments, providing strength and guidance even in the face of challenges. Joshua 24:15 is a powerful statement of family faith. Joshua’s words encourage families, whether biological or chosen, and individuals to make their commitment to God central, regardless of cultural or societal pressures. Joshua issues a call to faithful devotion. It reminds believers that faith is a conscious, personal choice—one that involves commitment and has implications for future generations.
As we navigate the river of life, there will be rocky shoals and rapids that will test you, but there will also be smooth waters that will allow you to glide through effortlessly. The smooth waters seem to be quickly becoming rapids that will be harder and harder to navigate. If we work together and keep our faith, we will get through any rocky shoals we come across. Which side of the river will you end up on? I hope you will join me on the on the river that serves the Lord and works everyday to make the world a better place.
I woke up this morning just before they called Wisconsin for Trump. I cannot convey how devastated I feel right now that the news has called the race for Donald Trump. How can so many Americans be so FUCKING STUPID? When I saw the results, a wave of nausea hit me immediately. I honestly don’t know how democracy will survive in the United States, or how the country itself will survive another Trump administration. I hate this fucking country! That’s all I can say right now. I hate this fucking country! I am completely devastated and am going to just crawl back in bed. This is a nightmare.
Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.
—1 Peter 5:8-9
First Peter 5:8-9 is a call for vigilance and spiritual resilience for followers of Christ. Peter urges believers to maintain a clear mind and stay alert. This isn’t just about avoiding distractions but being spiritually and mentally vigilant. Being “sober-minded” means exercising self-control and discernment, especially regarding spiritual matters. Peter compares the devil to a lion on the hunt, emphasizing his predatory nature. The “roaring” indicates an active threat, meant to instill fear or panic. Here, the devil represents anything that draws believers away from God — whether temptation, discouragement, or other trials. Peter encourages believers to actively resist these attacks by standing firm in their faith. This resistance comes not from human strength but from grounding oneself in faith, which provides a foundation against spiritual challenges. Finally, Peter reminds readers that they’re not alone in their struggles. This shared experience is meant to comfort and strengthen believers, reminding them of a global community that faces similar trials. However, too many people who call themselves Christians are not turning against evil and falsehoods but instead are excusing or turning a blind eye to evil and falsehoods.
Norms and civil discourse are no longer common in American politics, which reached a new low point last Sunday with a disgusting racist, sexist, and xenophobic display from former President Donald Trump, the man whom billionaires, bigots, and most Republicans covet through their acquiescence of the MAGA rhetoric and actions. The Bible urges believers to be alert, discerning, and grounded in truth, recognizing that spiritual dangers and deceptions are present in the world. John tells us in 1 John 4:1 that “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.” And in 1 Thessalonians 5:21-22, Paul instructs, “But test everything; hold fast what is good. Abstain from every form of evil.”
Anyone who is a Christian should realize that Donald Trump is not qualified to return to the Oval Office. He was not qualified to be elected in the first place. The health, happiness, and safety of all Americans are under threat in a Trump presidency. The mere fact that Trump allowed more than a million Americans to die of COVID-19 on his watch should be disqualifying enough, but for many, it hasn’t been. In fact, none of “it” has been. And there’s a lot of “it.” The blatant racism; the hatred of immigrants in a country of immigrants; the sexual assault accusations; the mocking and denigration of our military and veterans; the collapse of his COVID economy; the lies and demagoguery that led to the assault on our nation’s Capitol and the loss of life on Jan. 6, 2021; his praise of Adolf Hitler; the list seems neverending. None of these things, plus countless more, have been disqualifying for nearly half the country as the race has remained deadlocked. And they’ve been particularly not disqualifying for those poised to benefit the most from Trump’s return to power: the billionaire elites. We need to remember what Jesus said in Matthew 19:24, “And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.”
The neglect and betrayal from the ultra-wealthy are not for ideological or emotional reasons. This has little to do with policy or lawmaking and everything to do with convenience, cowardice, and quid pro quo. They know of profits — often engineered on the backs of underpaid and under-protected labor. They know of influence — in the form of turning platforms like the social network formerly known as Twitter into megaphones for racists and unfettered hate. Matthew 7:15 warns us, “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves.” Second Peter 2:1 also warns, “But there were also false prophets among the people, even as there will be false teachers among you, who will secretly bring in destructive heresies, even denying the Lord who bought them, and bring on themselves swift destruction.”
MAGA followers and the billionaire who enable them know nothing of ethics, specifically the belief in a “separation of church and state.” Jesus and the apostles warn that false teachers can appear harmless or even godly, but their influence can be spiritually destructive. Vigilance requires knowing Scripture well to identify teachings that do not align with it. In 2 Peter 2:1-3, Peter warns, “But false prophets also arose among the people, just as there will be false teachers among you… And in their greed, they will exploit you with false words.” The ultra-wealthy are not even thinking of us. Instead, their mind is on their profits, their pockets, their shareholders and their ever-inflated sense of worth. These are not the macho, stalwart champions of the people; they are little children afraid of a feebleminded racist, sexist, xenophobic, homophobic, antisemitic, fascist, deranged megalomaniac bent on “destroying” his enemies with nothing but contempt for our political process, our military, our Constitution, our diverse population and our way of life, which nearly half the country is enabling and encouraging.
It feels like the prophet Jeremiah, who often warned of the consequences of the people’s unfaithfulness to God and urged repentance and faithfulness, is speaking to us today. In Jeremiah 23:16, he says, “The Lord says, ‘Do not listen to the words of the prophets who prophesy to you, filling you with vain hopes. They speak visions of their own minds, not from the mouth of the Lord.’” Jeremiah points out that false prophets often tell people what they want to hear, giving false hope and ignoring God’s true message. False teachers may alter core teachings of the faith to make them more appealing or misleadingly persuasive. This can create confusion, division, and lead people away from God’s truth. In Galatians 1:6-7, Paul expresses concern that some are “turning to a different gospel—not that there is another one, but there are some who trouble you and want to distort the gospel of Christ.” Paul is very clear that any alteration of the gospel is dangerous and not truly from God. In 2 Timothy 4:3, Paul warns, “For the time is coming when people will not endure sound teaching… and will turn away from listening to the truth and wander off into myths.” False teachers often offer messages that appeal to people’s desires rather than challenging them with the truth.
Jesus taught that people could identify false prophets by their actions and the results of their teachings. True teachers of God bear good, lasting fruit, while false ones may lead to confusion, division, or sin. We can clearly see the chaos and confusion created by the actions and rhetoric of Donald Trump. In Matthew 7:16-20, Jesus says, “You will recognize them by their fruits… every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit.” Jesus is encouraging discernment and emphasizing that actions and outcomes reveal a teacher’s authenticity. The Bible’s message about false prophets and teachers is clear: they are a serious threat to spiritual health, often appearing convincing but ultimately leading people away from God. Believers are encouraged to be discerning, test teachings against Scripture, and remain grounded in God’s truth. Although they may seem influential or powerful, false prophets and teachers will face God’s judgment, as He defends and preserves His truth.
I hate to sound dire about this election, but our ways of life are on the line Tuesday when we vote. Democracy isn’t dying in darkness; it’s dying in broad daylight. The same is true of Christianity. The hateful, mean-spirited, and unchristian rhetoric of Christian nationalists is not only destroying democracy but also destroying Christianity. More Americans today are non-believers than are believers. Why is that? It’s because most churches in America are teaching hate and prejudice instead of the love and acceptance preached by Christ. America has often been referred to as “A City upon a Hill.” The phrase originated in the parable of Salt and Light in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 5:14, he tells his listeners, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden.” The phrase entered the American lexicon early in its history, in the Puritan John Winthrop’s 1630 sermon “A Model of Christian Charity.”
The concept of America as a “city upon a hill” gained traction as the U.S. expanded its borders and developed a sense of national identity. The phrase became associated with the idea of American exceptionalism, the belief that the U.S. has a unique role and destiny to lead and inspire other nations. During the Cold War, the phrase became a rallying point for American leaders who wanted to emphasize the U.S. as a democratic alternative to Soviet communism. President Reagan famously invoked the phrase during his presidency, framing the U.S. as a “shining city upon a hill” in his farewell address. To Reagan, the phrase symbolized a hopeful, optimistic America — a place of liberty, opportunity, and moral clarity. His use of the phrase cemented it as a defining symbol of American values in the late 20th century.
In recent years, the description of “city upon a hill” has been used more critically by some leaders and commentators to question whether America is living up to its ideals. It has become a reminder of the country’s responsibilities and a prompt for introspection on issues like inequality, justice, and America’s role on the global stage. If the United States could have ever been described as in Jesus’s words, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden,” then the Christian right and the Trumpists are exstinguishing that light. The United States in the politics of the Trump era is not a place of liberty, opportunity, and moral clarity. If Trump is elected to a second term, liberty in the United States will die, opportunities for the average person will cease to exist, and moral clarity will continue to fade away. Half the country has forfeited moral clarity for bigotry, sexism, vengeance, xenophobia, and control. It’s not about free thought or liberty, it’s about indoctrination and oppression.
Please, if you are an American and you have not voted already, vote to save our country, not to destroy it. In 1946, the German Lutheran pastor Martin Niemöller spoke about the silence of German intellectuals and clergy following the Nazis’ rise to power and subsequent incremental purging of their chosen targets, group after group. The best-known versions of Niemöller’s confession in English are edited versions in poetic form that began circulating by the 1950s which are usually some variations of:
First, they came for the Communists And I did not speak out Because I was not a Communist
Then they came for the Socialists And I did not speak out Because I was not a Socialist
Then they came for the trade unionists And I did not speak out Because I was not a trade unionist
Then they came for the Jews And I did not speak out Because I was not a Jew
Then they came for me And there was no one left To speak out for me.
In the era of bigotry emboldened by Trump’s rhetoric, MAGA first came for the Mexicans; then they came for the drag queens; then they came for people who are transgender; then they came for our books; then they came for free speech; then they came for personal freedoms; then they came for democracy itself; and the list goes on and on. Eventually, no matter who you are, they will come for you, and who will be left to speak out for you? If Trump wins, if his supporters gain control of Congress, they will come for us. They will come for immigrants, no matter their race. They’ll come for Christians who follow the Bible and do not twist the Word of God to fit their hateful rhetoric. They’ll come for the LGBTQ+ population of America. They will come for women, our mothers, sisters, daughters, friends, etc. They will not stop until they have destroyed all they do not agree with. As my friend Casey recently said of the Donald Trump and the election, “I think Tuesday will be a dark day either way. If he loses, he’s not going away. And if he wins, he’s not leaving office.” By never admitting defeat, he will keep his base going, and they will always believe the election was rigged. The sad thing is, they will keep on until they rig the elections in a way to secure their victory. Republican controlled state legislatures are already gerrymandering districts and passing more and more restrictive voting laws to cement their hold on power.
We must be vigilant. We must stop the attack on our very lives. Vote BLUE and save democracy!
Joe
The Closet Professor 