Switching Umbrellas
The fate of USAID is up in the a-i-r.
Established during the Cold War to advance Western interests and streamline State Department-stalled foreign assistance, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) administers $40B/year in humanitarian and security aid for 100+ countries.
Last week, Elon Musk championed “deleting” the agency, calling it “beyond repair.” On Monday, the White House announced that USAID would go back under the State Department’s umbrella while it reviews spending. USAID HQ doors were closed Monday and Tuesday.
The move has faced backlash. Dependent organizations are expressing concern for impoverished global communities left in the lurch, while Congressional Democrats say the White House can’t unilaterally dismantle a Congress-authorized-and-funded agency. Sec. of State Rubio says USAID spending “in alignment with the national interest” will continue, stressing that the agency isn’t an independent “global charity.”
CHRISTIAN REFLECTION
Believers may disagree about how governments should spend taxpayer dollars, but commands for Christians’ wallets are crystal clear: prioritize heavenly treasure, generously help the needy, and run from greed. Are you rich toward God in your personal spending habits?
“But seek his kingdom, and these things will be provided for you. Don’t be afraid, little flock, because your Father delights to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Make money-bags for yourselves that won’t grow old, an inexhaustible treasure in heaven, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Luke 12:31–34 (CSB) (read full passage)