A Government in Transition: Loyalty vs. Expertise
- Raymond Melendez
- Apr 22
- 3 min read
Large-scale reforms proposed in Washington aim to overhaul the federal government by replacing long-standing civil service protections with politically appointed positions. Advocates claim this will make the government more responsive to the elected administration’s agenda. However, critics warn it could politicize governance, threatening the integrity and expertise of the federal workforce.
The Faithfulness of God
In a time of growing ideological differences—between belief and disbelief, changing values and timeless truths—many wonder about God's place in the turmoil. However, both Scripture and creation confirm this unwavering truth: God's faithfulness is steadfast; it endures, and the earth will continue to testify to God's love, mercy, and care. Through Christ, we are called to be good and faithful stewards of the earth, which proves God's existence (Bouma-Prediger 85).
Power, Priorities, and the Public Good
The proposed elimination of federal departments and cuts to safety net programs mark a dramatic shift in national priorities. Efforts to dismantle the Department of Education and reduce funding for Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Security are framed as moves toward state control and responsibility. Yet critics warn these changes could harm the most vulnerable and unravel decades of social progress. At the same time, climate policy is being reoriented—removing “climate change” from federal vocabulary and prioritizing economic interests over environmental stewardship. This realignment, while welcomed by some industries, raises urgent concerns among scientists and environmental advocates (Oreskes and Conway 169).
Faith, Identity, and Proof
The divide between those who worship and those who do not reflects more than a difference in religious belief—it’s a divergence of moral, social, and philosophical systems. For worshippers, it is a life deeply rooted in Scripture, guided by Christ, and sustained by the Holy Spirit. Non-worshippers may draw meaning from science, personal growth, or other ideals. Although these worldviews may seem vastly different, there is still common ground. Through participating in verbal and written communication and demonstrating mutual respect, individuals from both perspectives can unite in the pursuit of shared values as good and faithful caretakers of the Earth who are committed to caring for God's creation (Hessel 32).
God's Presence
As the nation braces for a range of political reforms and social realignments, the divide between worshippers and non-worshippers continues to grow—fueled by differing worldviews, values, and moral systems. For truth seekers, Scripture offers purpose and identity, grounded in the unchanging truth of God's Word. For others, meaning may be sought through science, philosophy, or lived experience. And yet, this divide is not always rigid. Conversations persist. Respect is possible. Many non-worshippers embrace ethical values that align with the faith community. Still, through it all, God is present. As Jesus reminds us in John 3:8, the Spirit moves mysteriously and powerfully—within us and among us—even when it eludes us.
The Enduring Gift
Amid uncertainty and shifting cultural tides, one truth remains unshaken: salvation is from God, and Jesus is where it begins.
“With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26).
Faithfulness is God's gift, planted in our hearts, and for those who seek truth, it begins in Christ.
“When ye are in the service of your fellow beings, ye are only in the service of your God” (Mosiah 2:17).
Through genuine acts of compassion, love, and sincerity, we bear witness to God's presence on earth, with written works serving as valid evidence. Worship unveils a God who invites us to be empowered as good and faithful stewards of the Earth.
The Spirit, the Earth, and Stewardship
In a world burdened by political turmoil and environmental neglect, God’s faithfulness is still alive—written in Scripture, reflected in nature, and spoken in every act of love. Psalm 19:1 proclaims, “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of God.” Creation itself testifies to God’s enduring presence. We are called to respond—not with fear, but as good and faithful stewards of the Earth. Christ’s life, death, and resurrection were not only real, but here is where it all began. Paradise. The Holy Spirit is still moving together with us as good and faithful stewards of the Earth who walk with God in a world that is still unashamed to say Jesus lives.
Works Cited
