In times of crisis, Americans have historically set aside partisanship and moved with one voice in the best interests of the country.
Back in 2001, the terrorist attacks of September 11th seemed to reawaken the patriotic fervor of the nation. Only days after the tragedy, Republicans and Democrats stood side by side on the Capitol steps and sang “God Bless America.”
A bipartisan resolve also swept across all 50 states back in 1991 during the first Gulf War. American flags flew from porches, and politicians temporarily stopped criticizing one another, and instead championed our men and women of the Armed Forces.
Will we see a similar spirit of national unity in the wake of the coronavirus global pandemic?
A little more than a week into this unprecedented and monumental health and economic challenge, there are mixed signals, to be sure.
Healthcare workers on the frontlines of this battle are sacrificially extending themselves around the clock. As demand outstrips supplies in some areas, doctors and nurses are finding creative ways to keep treating patients.
Incidentally, we all need to pray regularly for our country’s medical workers who are working furiously to save lives during this crisis, and at significant risk to themselves. They’re heroes, each and every one.
Corporations are also stepping up in the fight against this virulent infection. Apple announced plans to donate millions of masks, and Hanes will be shifting production to make 6 million of them per week. Other companies are scrambling to make ventilators and surgical garb.
This is the best of America, and it’s encouraging to see so many rise to the challenge.
Yet, partisan battles are now raging over congressional relief efforts. At the time of this writing, liberal politicians are blocking legislation intended to help aide the nation, insisting that some unrelated pet projects also be included in the emergency funding.
Liberals are seeking dollars for all sorts of extraneous things – and some are even demanding that the bill include environmental regulations and new limitations on ICE and Border Patrol efforts, to name just a few of the pet projects.
What does this have to do with fighting the coronavirus and helping Americans?
Nothing – but self-serving politicians apparently never want to let a crisis go to waste.
Now is the time for the nation to pull together. It’s time to lay aside partisan rancor and put first the needs of our citizens.
As we criticize liberals, let’s also call them to the task of saving our people, economy and way of life. Let’s work together on defeating the coronavirus, and not allow the things which divide us to win.
Thankfully, in addition to the sacrificial healthcare workers and responsible corporations leaning in to help, there are strong indicators that America is rallying together once again.
Neighbors are helping neighbors. Churches are redoubling their outreach efforts. Groups are praying together online. I even read about a Vietnam veteran who is carrying a giant American flag through the streets of New York City in a patriotic sign of solidarity.
Let’s not lose this moment. Please do what you can with the resources available at your disposal.
The Lord is up to something. None of this has caught Him by surprise. Let’s continue to pray for a miracle and ask Him to protect all who are in harm’s way.
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