Latest news with #Matthew25
Buzz Feed
09-07-2025
- Politics
- Buzz Feed
Christian Values vs. MAGA Faith: Key Differences
Last month, Jen Hamilton, a nurse with a sizable following on TikTok and Instagram, picked up her Bible and made a video that would quickly go viral. A few days earlier, Hamilton, who lives in a small town in North Carolina, had posted a video asking her followers about resources she could give to people in her life who were beginning to deconstruct their loyalty to the MAGA movement. There were some helpful tips, but Hamilton noticed one reply in particular: 'Whoa,' it said. 'Be careful now. I am happily MAGA and I love Jesus. We are exhausted from liberal nonsense.' Hamilton didn't want to argue. Instead, she grabbed her Bible and attempted to 'hold up the character of Jesus, his actual words, as a mirror' to some of the more ardent supporters of President Donald Trump. 'Basically, I sat down at my kitchen table and began to read from Matthew 25 while overlaying MAGA policies that directly oppose the character and nature of Jesus' teachings,' she told HuffPost. 'I was hungry and you fed me,' she reads in the clip, as a headline about a Trump administration spending bill that proposes slashing federal funding to the SNAP food program by nearly $300 billion pops up. 'I was in prison and you visited me,' she says, as a headline about migrants who entered the country legally and were still deported to El Salvador prisons appears on the screen. potential cuts to Medicaid, flashes by. As Hamilton highlights, Matthew 25 stresses that those who serve people in need ― the hungry, the prisoner, the stranger ― will enter his Kingdom, while those who overlook the downtrodden will receive judgment: 'When you refused to help the least of these, you were refusing to help me,' Jesus tells the latter. 'As a Christian, I don't think you can be both MAGA and Christian,' a top comment on the Instagram video reads. But not everyone was a fan. Hamilton said she's been on the receiving end of some MAGA ire since posting the clip. 'Some even reported me to the Board of Nursing to have my license taken away,' Hamilton told HuffPost. 'As a nurse, I don't know how you don't fight for the rights of the vulnerable communities you care for.' 'I'm a Christ-follower but the video I made wasn't a religious or political statement ― it was a moral one,' she told us, before noting that she believes that there is a big difference between identifying as a Republican and being MAGA. 'The video was about the hypocrisy of people claiming to follow Jesus while supporting a movement that actively harms the specific communities He called us to love,' Hamilton said. Hamilton's critics say that she is misrepresenting Scripture, but she wonders how that can be when she was literally just reading Jesus' words. There's a deep chasm in American Christianity in part because of Trump. The fierce debate over Hamilton's video is a microcosm for what's been happening in American Christianity for at least the last 50 years, said the Rev. Brandan Robertson, a pastor of Sunnyside Reformed Church in New York City, and the author of Queer & Christian: Reclaiming the Bible, Our Faith, and our Place at the Table. 'The religious right was formed to use conservative Christianity as a tool to help right wing politicians gain power and enact policies that preserve white, conservative Christian privilege at the expense of everyone else,' Robertson said in an email interview with HuffPost. The MAGA movement, Robertson said, is just the 'full revelation' of what the religious right has dreamt of doing for decades. 'They have been remarkably effective in their strategy to conflate their values with Christian orthodoxy and have convinced a considerable number of American Christians that to be a Christian is to support right-wing policies,' he said. Interestingly, most Americans don't consider President Trump to be particularly religious, with fewer than half in a 2020 Pew survey saying they think he's Christian. Raised Presbyterian, Trump now calls himself a 'non- denominational Christian.' Still, he has dedicated support among white evangelical Christians. In a Pew survey conducted after his first 100 days in office in April, 72% of white evangelical Protestants approve of his job as president. The president has surrounded himself with a coterie of evangelical pastors and faith leaders, including Paula White, a tongue-speaking televangelist who has called the Black Lives Matter movement the 'Antichrist,' and William Wolfe ― a self-described 'Christian nationalist' and executive director of the Center for Baptist Leadership who told conservative news site The Daily Signal he considers mass deportations a Christian issue. Robertson doesn't think such Christian faith leaders represent the full breadth of American Christianity today. 'There are also many moderate and progressive Christians in our country,' he said. 'Nearly every mainline Protestant denomination in the U.S. stands against most if not all of the xenophobic policies coming from the religious right.' Notable among the critics is Right Rev. Mariann Edgar Budde, the Episcopal bishop of Washington who delivered the homily at the interfaith prayer service following Trump's second presidential inauguration in January. In her sermon, Budde made a direct plea to Trump, asking him to have 'mercy' on those 'scared' about his return to the White House and the effect his policies may have on them, such as LGBTQ+ children and undocumented immigrants. While Protestants may be the most vocal critics of the Trump administration, a number of evangelicals and Catholics have split off from the MAGA movement and spoken about the ' the spiritual danger of Donald Trump.' The latter have been particularly vocal about the Trump administration's anti-immigrant actions. Earlier this month, the first U.S. bishop appointed by Pope Leo XIV called for priests, deacons and parish leaders to stand in solidarity with migrants by showing up to immigration court proceedings. 'All of these people are working to shake their fellow believers out of their obsession with Trump and calling them back to Christ,' Robertson said. 'Prophetic, progressive Christians that are devoted to the way of Jesus are standing up and speaking up, and I am hopeful that we can form coalitions that can change the direction of this country for the common good of all people,' he said. Some Christians say they hope other believers begin to put Jesus first again. As Carrie McKean, a writer and the communications director at First Presbyterian Church Midland in West Texas, has written about, there are even pastors who generally like Trump's border policy while still worrying about, and even sheltering, migrants. 'Despite the way MAGA, populism and Christian Nationalism might be dominating this current political moment — and despite the way many within those movements distort and twist Jesus' words to achieve their own ends — it's so important to remember, Jesus was never trying to build a kingdom of this world,' McKean told HuffPost. ″[Jesus] cannot be sorted into one of our contemporary political boxes — he is not merely liberal or conservative,' she said. As a follower of Jesus, McKean said she's praying that more Christians demonstrate a willingness to place even the strongest political convictions beneath the authority of Jesus. 'To do this, we each must cultivate a critical eye toward our own parties,' she said. 'We must stay alert, recognizing that earthly rulers are prone to manipulation, power plays (Matthew 20:25), and ungodly acts of injustice (Ecclesiastes 5:8–9).' Hamilton, the creator of the viral video, agrees. She said she's been most heartened by comments from people who've reached out and said that video caused them to give more thought to the political movements they've stood behind. 'I heard from people who are finding their faith by divorcing it from Christian nationalism and that brings me hope,' she said. 'I'm not trying to turn everyone liberal, I'm just trying to create a moment of pause for people who feel deeply entrenched in MAGA ― to maybe help them reconnect with their own values outside of the noise.' HuffPost.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Matthew 25 unveils mobile STD testing unit
HENDERSON, Ky (WEHT) – The non-profit organization Matthew 25 held a ribbon cutting to celebrate its campaign to help prevent, educate and treat people in the Tri-State with Sexual Transmitted Diseases. Last August, The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention granted $3,000,000 in funding to the organization. Matthew 25 used a large portion of that grant in partnership with Mission Mobile Medical to customize the treatment center. As for why this was needed, Chief Executive Officer, Courtney Woolfork, said, 'We have clinics in Owensboro, Henderson, and Bowling Green. But everything in between is really hard for people to get access to, because there isn't public transportation always.' The non-profit covers 25 counties in Kentucky and 12 in Indiana and officials say that they have seen STD trends increasing in those regions. Woolfork says that trends like these are why it's so beneficial to have a mobile treatment unit that can serve vulnerable areas. The mobile unit will also have PREP pills available to those who have had a Sexually Transmitted Illnesses. Matthew 25 urges those who have come in contact with an STD or STI to get this pill to lessen their chances of contracting HIV in the future. Over the next couple months, Woolfork and her team plan on traveling to 25 counties in the Tri-State. March 27 will kick off the road trip, as they will be in Owensboro, Kentucky for National HIV Testing Day. Although they are fighting an uphill battle the mission statement is clear, 'Meeting people where they are and however they are.' Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
Yahoo
22-05-2025
- General
- Yahoo
Compassion International and YouVersion Partner on Guided Scripture 'Takeover'
Collaboration invites believers to attend to the needs of 'the least of these' Colorado Springs, Colorado--(Newsfile Corp. - May 22, 2025) - Compassion International, a leading child development organization, is partnering with YouVersion to encourage Gospel-minded believers to live as "Unto Jesus." As part of its ongoing "Unto Jesus," initiative, Compassion CEO and President Jimmy Mellado along with several Compassion alumni - formerly sponsored children who overcame poverty through participation in Compassion's child development program - will be featured in the Guided Scripture experience, inside YouVersion's Bible App, starting today and running through Sunday. YouVersion is known for creating biblically centered, culturally relevant experiences that encourage and challenge people to seek God throughout each day. Inspired by the powerful words of Jesus, each daily devotional will focus on a passage of scripture found in Matthew 25 encouraging believers to better serve the least among us. "We're incredibly honored to partner with Compassion International on the Unto Jesus initiative," said Justin Tarsiuk, Director of Partnerships at YouVersion. "At YouVersion, our heart is to help people connect with God every day through His Word-and this partnership is a beautiful expression of that mission in action. Together, we're inviting people not only to know Jesus more deeply, but to follow Him more fully in their daily lives." According to Andrew Kooman, Compassion Brand Partnership Lead, the ministry's research indicates believers are seeking a deeper understanding of scripture and believes this is a perfect opportunity to provide richer, meaningful insights. Compassion participants will focus on the parable of the Sheep and the Goats, with each day focusing on specific verses. As part of the "Unto Jesus," initiative, Compassion is also making several resources available to help people delve deeper to include: Devotional Plan A thoughtfully curated plan to guide participants in daily reflections and spiritual growth, available on YouVersion. Activity Planner: Practical tools and ideas to help families live out their faith in everyday moments. Social Media Challenge: Engaging challenges that encourage believers to share their journey and inspire others. Livestream Conversations: Influencers and alumni will explore what it means to "Live Unto Jesus" in interactive livestreams. Video Series: Prominent Christian voices will discuss bold and surprising topics related to living out Matthew 25. "YouVersion is an extraordinary partner for Compassion," said Kooman. "Not only is YouVersion the most widely downloaded Bible app in the world, but they also share our desire to help each person become who God made them to be, and to encourage them to make a difference in the lives of those who need it most."To engage with Guided Scripture, install the app at To access "Unto Jesus," resources, participate in activities, and connect with a community dedicated to serving with compassion, visit: As part of its "Unto Jesus," initiative, Compassion International is featured in the Guided Scripture experience inside YouVersion's Bible App, encouraging believers to better serve the least among us. (Photo by Compassion International)To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit: About Compassion International Compassion International is a Christian child development organization dedicated to releasing children from poverty in Jesus' name. Founded in 1952, Compassion partners with more than 8,900 local churches in 29 program countries to deliver spiritual, economic, social, and physical care to over two million babies, children, and young adults in poverty. Ranked No. 12 in Forbes' America's Top Charities List in 2024, Compassion is a founding member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability and an accredited charity with the Better Business Bureau's Wise Giving Alliance. For more information, visit or follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok. About YouVersion Created by YouVersion designs free, biblically centered experiences that encourage and challenge people to seek God throughout each day. The YouVersion Family of Apps-including the Bible App, Bible App Lite, and Bible App for Kids-has been installed on more than 940 million devices worldwide. The Bible App offers a Bible experience in more than 2,200 languages and helps people deepen their relationship with God. Bible App Lite is optimized for offline use and helps people access God's Word in markets with device and data limitations. Developed in partnership with OneHope, the Bible App for Kids helps children engage with the Bible through interactive animations and fun activities. For more information about YouVersion, visit MEDIA CONTACT:Larry Lincoln719-424-6461llincoln@ ### To view the source version of this press release, please visit
Business Wire
18-05-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
Walmart, Sam's Club and the Walmart Foundation Commit $750,000 to Support Tornado Relief Efforts
BENTONVILLE, Ark.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Walmart Inc., along with Sam's Club and the Walmart Foundation, is actively supporting impacted communities in Illinois, Kentucky, and Missouri following severe storms that have left thousands with damage to their homes and many others without electricity. Together, they are committing $750,000 to support relief efforts across the impacted areas. Following the devastating storms—particularly in St. Louis, MO, and London and Somerset, KY—Walmart and Sam's Club have been working with nonprofit organizations to provide essential resources, including: In St. Louis: Walmart supported Annie Malone Children & Family Services to deliver two truckloads of supplies to residents. In London, KY: At the Walmart Supercenter (Store #1113), Walmart is offering free hot meals through the support of Operation BBQ Relief. Additionally, Tides Loads of Hope laundry service and showers provided by Matthew 25: Ministries, Procter & Gamble and Walmart will be deployed to the area. Across the impacted areas: With the loss of homes and power, Walmart and Sam's Club have worked with ITDRC to provide wi-fi services and charging stations to those areas. 'We're thinking of our friends and neighbors in Illinois, Kentucky, and Missouri who were impacted by the devastating storms and tornadoes Friday night. The loss of life and the damage to these communities is heartbreaking,' said John Furner, President and CEO, Walmart U.S. 'Our teams are working closely with local leaders and first responders, and we're actively coordinating efforts across Walmart to provide support where it's needed most.' Earlier this year, Walmart, Sam's Club, and the Walmart Foundation provided assistance to several communities in Kentucky and Missouri following severe storms and flooding. 'Our thoughts are with our associates, our members, and the families who have been impacted by the tornadoes in the communities Sam's Club calls home,' said Chris Nicholas, President and CEO, Sam's Club. 'We are moving quickly to provide the support these communities need as they recover from the severe weather.' For those associates, customers, and communities affected, Walmart is providing the support you need through this challenging time. For more information, visit Walmart Disaster Response. About Walmart Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) is a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer helping people save money and live better — anytime and anywhere — in stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, approximately 255 million customers and members visit more than 10,500 stores and numerous eCommerce websites in 19 countries. With fiscal year 2024 revenue of $648 billion, Walmart employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy, and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting on Facebook at on X (formerly known as Twitter) at and on LinkedIn at About Sam's Club Sam's Club, the $86 billion division of Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT), is a membership club that is pioneering the future of retail experience, providing exclusive access to value, convenience and modern omnichannel shopping options to millions of members in 600 clubs across the U.S. and Puerto Rico. With over 40 years of innovating in the category, Sam's Club continues to redefine club membership shopping with its curated assortment of quality fresh food and Member's Mark® items, in addition to market leading technologies and services like Scan & Go™️, curbside pickup and home delivery. Visit the Sam's Club Newsroom, shop at or connect with Sam's Club on LinkedIn, X, Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Pinterest. About Philanthropy at Walmart represents the philanthropic efforts of Walmart and the Walmart Foundation. The team works to tackle key social and environmental issues relevant for the retail sector in collaboration with others to spark long-lasting systemic change.
Yahoo
08-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Miller, Neeb honored with Friend of Lacasa award
ELKHART — Galen Miller was frank about his dismay with the shape of the country while accepting the Friend of Lacasa award Wednesday. Miller, owner of Miller Poultry, and his wife, Sue Neeb, received the award at the organization's annual lunch. Lacasa CEO Jeremy Stutsman said the couple has supported housing initiatives and community revitalization efforts that helped shape the county over the years. 'Their impact speaks for itself. For decades, they have been pillars of generosity, service and dedication, not just for Lacasa but for countless organizations and projects throughout Elkhart County,' Stutsman said. 'They embody service leadership in the purest form.' While accepting the award, Miller reflected on the state of the country at the moment. He expressed dismay at the level of disorder and the toll it can take. 'Some of us are not in a very good place, and personally I'm not in a very good place,' he said. 'With the chaos that's going on in my country right now, with the divisiveness that seems to be becoming the norm. I daresay, probably even a few of us in this very room own part of this divisiveness at times. So it's really hard to know where to go, and the easiest thing would be to just pull back. Just totally pull back.' It would be easy to retreat to a cabin in the middle of nowhere, close your checkbook and turn off your phone, Miller said. But instead, he made a reference to the parable in Matthew 25 that holds a message about feeding the hungry and welcoming strangers. 'But I think we're asked to do more than that. I think there are some of us still, and hopefully there'll be enough of us, that still feel like we do things to 'the least of us,' to 'the least of them,'' he said. 'Thank you for what you do in the community and thank you that you give us a way to help support 'the least of us.'' It's a lesson he said he learned from his father, who was once driven to tears because he wanted to support a non-profit that came to their door but didn't have the money to spare. 'He was feeling so bad that he had nothing to give. As a 10- or 12-year-old, that really made an impact. So over the years we've tried to give. And we know that, especially in this time, we still have to stay open. We still have to engage. We still need to try to find some balance in the center,' Miller said. 'Whether it's governmental, whether it's business, whether it's non-profits. We've got to work together somehow, folks. It's just driving me crazy.'
