Medicaid Enrollees Targeted for Forced Farm Work Under Trump Immigration Crackdown
By Stacy M. Brown, NNPA Newswire Senior National Correspondent @StacyBrownMedia
A top Trump administration official is proposing what critics call a thinly veiled form of forced labor, suggesting that millions of low-income Americans on Medicaid should be used to replace undocumented immigrants the government is deporting en masse from U.S. farms. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins laid out the administration’s vision in blunt terms on Tuesday. “There will be no amnesty. The mass deportations continue, but in a
strategic way,” Rollins told reporters after meeting with Republican governors. “We move the workforce towards automation and 100% American participation, which, again, with 34 million people—able-bodied adults on Medicaid—we should be able to do that fairly quickly.”
She added, “Ultimately, the answer on this is automation, also some reform within the current governing structure. And then also, when you think about it, there are 34 million able-bodied adults in our Medicaid program. There are plenty of workers in
America.” The remarks echo proposals President Donald Trump himself has floated in recent months, including a plan to compel farmers to house and supervise migrant laborers to avoid ICE raids directly—an arrangement many civil rights experts have warned resembles indentured servitude. Rollins’ suggestion goes further, signaling the administration wants to turn Medicaid enrollment— a health insurance lifeline— into a de facto roster of people to be mobilized for field work.
Health policy experts say this is not only an assault on the safety net but an attack on basic civil rights. Medicaid exists to provide healthcare for people living in poverty, not to support an unpaid or underpaid agricultural workforce. Data show that the policy would hit Black Americans especially hard. According to the Kaiser Family Foundation, Black individuals make up nearly 19% of Medicaid enrollees under 65, despite being about 13% of the total U.S. population. In many states, including Alabama, Georgia, and Mississippi, the share is far higher. Medicaid finances nearly 41% of all births nationwide and covers over 30% of Black Americans overall.
Critics also point out that
the policy would primarily target women and children: nearly half of Medicaid enrollees are under 19 years old, and many adults in the program are mothers or caregivers. In 2023, about 47.6% of Medicaid enrollees were adults between 19 and 64, including millions of people with disabilities and chronic illnesses. “This is state-sanctioned exploitation,” said a policy researcher who reviewed Rollins’ comments. “They are literally talking about rounding up the poorest Americans—disproportionately Black and brown— and telling them to replace deported immigrants in the fields. That’s not a jobs program. That’s forced labor.”
Even among the working-
age adults enrolled in Medicaid, many are already employed in low-wage jobs that do not offer insurance. Others are caretakers or people with severe health conditions. Federal law does not require Medicaid recipients to accept any form of employment as a condition of coverage. Farmers themselves have warned that the administration’s deportation and labor policies will trigger food shortages and economic chaos. Growers across the country rely on immigrant workers to harvest crops—labor that is already among the most dangerous and poorly paid in the U.S. Some of Trump’s allies have promoted proposals to re-
Homebuyer Assistance Program: Making Homeownership Dreams A Reality
Owning a home is more than just a dream — it's a pathway to stability, generational wealth and thriving communities. In honor of National Homeownership Month, the City of Fort Worth and Housing Channel are spotlighting programs that make homeownership accessible for more residents.
One pivotal initiative is Fort Worth's Homebuyer Assistance Program (HAP), which offers crucial down payment assistance, turning dreams of homeownership into reality. Senior Loan Representative Lilia Escobedo from the Fort Worth Neighborhood Services Department has shared insights into how these efforts are transforming lives and strengthening neighborhoods.
"Homeownership is a cornerstone of community development," she said. "Programs like HAP not only empower individuals but also build stronger communities."
Let's celebrate the importance of homeownership and the impactful programs that pave the way for more families to achieve this milestone. Learn more about the available resources and how they can benefit you.
Watch our informative video on the City Website to get all your questions answered about our Homebuyer Assistance Program.
Swim Beneath the Stars at Three Upcoming Family Nights
be onsite,
Update: The July 12 Family Night at Forest Park Pool has been cancelled. However, there are still two other Family Nights on July 26 at Marine Park Pool and August 23 at Forest Park Pool.
Sean “Diddy” Combs Convicted on Federal Mann Act Counts, Cleared of Racketeering and Sex Trafficking
By Stacy M. Brown, Black Press USA Senior National Correspondent
Sean “Diddy” Combs was convicted Wednesday of transporting two women across state lines for sex but acquitted of running a criminal enterprise and two counts of sex trafficking. The split verdict capped a weeks-long federal trial that exposed the hip-hop mogul’s private life
to public scrutiny and left him facing prison time for felony convictions.
Jurors in U.S. District Court in Manhattan returned the following decisions after several days of deliberation:
• Count 1: Not guilty of racketeering conspiracy.
• Count 4: Not guilty of sex trafficking of another former girlfriend, identified as “Jane.”
• Count 5: Guilty of Mann Act transportation of “Jane.” Combs, who had spent decades cultivating a brand defined by luxury and influence, sat impassively as the
• Count 2: Not guilty of sex trafficking of former girlfriend Casandra Ventura. Count 3: Guilty of Mann Act transportation of Ventura.
foreperson read the verdicts in a quiet courtroom. His mother, several of his children, and other family members were present to hear the outcome. The defense secured three acquittals, including the most serious charge of racketeering conspiracy, which carried the possibility of life in prison. Jurors also declined to convict Combs of
Historic Forest Park welcomes
Review Your Homeowners Insurance Annually to Avoid Costly Surprises
As a real estate professional here in North Texas, I work closely with families making one of the biggest investments of their lives, buying their home. But owning a home doesn’t stop at the closing table. One of the most important yet often overlooked responsibilities of homeownership is making sure your insurance policy keeps up with your property’s current value and your lifestyle.
Too often, homeowners file claims only to discover that their coverage limits are outdated. That’s why I always recommend conducting an annual review of your homeowner’s insurance policy. It’s a simple step that could save you thousands of dollars and
Talking R eal e s TaT e with Stephanie Spann
a great deal of heartache. Why Annual Insurance Review Is So Important
Your homeowner’s insurance is designed to protect you in the event of a disaster such as fire, storm damage, theft, or another covered loss. The policy covers your dwelling (the structure itself) and your personal belongings inside. But what many homeowners don’t realize is that the policy limits you set when you first purchased your home may no longer be adequate.
Over the past year, have you remodeled a bathroom, remodeled your kitchen or added new kitchen appliances, finished out your attic, or installed a backyard pool
Mayor Pro Tem Carlos Flores Named to North Central Texas Council of Governments Executive Board
Fort Worth Mayor Pro Tem Carlos Flores was named to the executive board of the North Central Texas Council of Governments.
Flores, who has represented Fort Worth’s Council District 2 since June 2017, is a third-generation Fort Worth native. A graduate of Nolan Catholic High School, he attended the University of Texas at Austin to major in aerospace engineering and minor in fine arts. Flores completed his degree studies at the University of Texas at Arlington.
Burleson Councilmember Victoria Johnson will serve as president of the NCTCOG executive board for the next year after being elected to lead the 17-member board during the 59th annual Gen-
Medicaid
eral Assembly at the Hurst Conference Center.
About NCTCOG: NCTCOG is a voluntary association of local governments established in 1966 to assist local governments in planning for common needs, cooperating for mutual benefit and coordinating for sound regional development.
NCTCOG’s purpose is to strengthen both the individual and collective power of local governments and to help them recognize regional opportunities, eliminate unnecessary duplication and make joint decisions. NCTCOG serves a 16-county region of North Central Texas, which is centered in the two urban centers of Dallas and Fort Worth.
Continued from page 1
quire farms to lodge and monitor their remaining migrant workforce, raising alarms about “company town” conditions that legal experts say blur the line between employment and captivity. Rollins, however, was adamant. “This is the direction,” she said. “There are plenty of workers in America.” The White House did not respond to questions about how forcing Medicaid recipients into agricultural work would comply with labor laws, disability rights statutes, or the constitutional ban on involuntary servitude. A civil rights advocate put it more bluntly: “This is not immigration policy. This is an attempt to resurrect slavery in America under a different name.”
or patio? Even seemingly small upgrades can increase the cost to rebuild your home, which means your dwelling coverage should reflect those improvements.
And even if you haven’t made any major updates, inflation and rising construction costs can significantly impact what it would take to rebuild today compared to just a year or two ago.
Personal Belongings Add Up Fast
Another common oversight is failing to update the personal property portion of your policy. If you’ve purchased high-end electronics, designer furniture, or received valuable jewelry or artwork, make sure these items are adequately insured. Standard policies often have limits on valu-
ables, so you may need to add specific endorsements or riders to ensure full protection. You Might Be Overpaying for Outdated Coverage On the flip side, a policy review may reveal that you’re paying for coverage you no longer need. Maybe your children have moved out and taken their belongings with them, or you’ve recently decluttered and sold off possessions. In these cases, reducing your personal property coverage can lower your premium without compromising your protection.
Make Sure Your Insurance Matches Your Reality Your homeowner’s insurance should evolve with your life. An annual review is the perfect time to check whether your policy is aligned with your current needs. A quick
Continued on page 3
Diddy Combs
sex trafficking either woman.
Prosecutors alleged that Combs used his businesses and employees to arrange hotels, flights, and drugs for what witnesses described as “freak-off” encounters. They argued that his staff helped maintain control over the women through manipulation and intimidation. Defense attorneys countered that while Combs’ personal relationships were unconventional, they were consensual, and that the government had overreached by attempting to portray them as part of an organized criminal enterprise.
The two guilty verdicts
on Mann Act violations are serious felony convictions, each punishable by up to 10 years in prison. Sentencing has not yet been scheduled. Combs’ attorneys have now asked for bail because he’s no longer charged with racketeering. As Combs stood to leave, he turned to his family, blew a kiss, and said quietly, “I love you all.”
One of his lawyers told reporters outside court, “Mr. Combs appreciates that the jury looked closely at the evidence. While we are disappointed in the convictions, we are grateful for the acquittals and will continue to fight at sentencing.”
Among the members of the 2025-26 NCTCOG Executive Board are: Back row (from left): Plano Councilmember Rick Horne, Prosper Mayor David Bristol, Fort Worth Mayor Pro Tem Carlos Flores, Dallas Councilmember Cara Mendelsohn,
Commentary Commentary
American Democracy is at a Pivotal Moment and None of Us Should be Silent
None of us should be silent about the recent use of federal agents by this administration to bully, arrest, and investigate political opponents. Just as none of us should accept as normal or okay its use of the military against Americans exercising their First Amendment rights.
Donald Trump’s gleeful embrace of fascist tactics is on display almost daily. As he tries to run roughshod over the courts and sics federal agents on members of Congress and other public officials, we need to sound every alarm we can about the threats to checks and balance and American democracy itself.
The violent treatment of US Senator Alex Padilla (D-CA) earlier this month at a press conference being held in Los Angeles by Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem is just one recent example.
Sen. Padilla spoke up, identified himself, and tried to ask a question. For that, he was physically forced out of the room, pushed to the ground, and handcuffed.
Noem and others in the
Trump administration have said Sen. Padilla forced his way into the press conference, “charged” Noem at the podium, and failed to identify himself. Video and witness accounts of the event seem to expose that as a pack of lies. Attempting to provide cover for the administration, cries of “political theater!” from the Far Right predictably filled the airwaves and online feeds. But it couldn’t be clearer that Sen. Padilla did everything right. He was escorted by a National Guardsman and an FBI agent into the building and then into Sec. Noem’s press briefing. He had even asked permission first to make sure it was okay for him to go in. According to the senator:
“They opened the door for me, they walked in and were standing near me as I was listening for several minutes during the press conference. And then when I felt compelled to start asking questions, before I could get two or three words out, there were hands on me, and you saw what happened next. So this was not theatrics. This was
Talking Real Estate:
phone call to your insurance agent or a consultation with a trusted advisor can make all the difference.
As your local real estate advocate, I encourage all Fort Worth and Dallas area homeowners to take this proactive step. The peace of mind that
comes with knowing your investment is fully protected. If you’re considering home improvements or are unsure whether your insurance coverage matches your proper-
not me crashing an event. You can’t get more secure than being in an FBI office in the second-largest city in America.”
Last month, members of
By Ben Jealous
Congress joined the mayor of Newark, NJ to visit a controversial ICE detention facility in the city. US Representative LaMonica McIver (D-NJ) was arrested when an altercation arose between security and the delegation of elected officials.
It is worth noting that a cloud of lies from the administration surrounded that incident as it did for the incident with Sen. Padilla. The dishonesty of the administra-
Continued from page 2
ty’s current value, I’m happy to connect you with professionals who can help. Your home is likely your biggest asset, let’s make sure it’s fully protected.
tion’s story about what happened at the detention center is exposed in how it keeps shifting.
At first, the Trump administration said the officials “stormed the gate and broke into the detention facility.”
But an indictment against Rep. McIver issued this month states the lawmakers peacefully entered through an open security gate and then proceeded to an interior reception area.
Rep. McIver stated, “the facts of this case will prove I was simply doing my job,” and called her arrest and subsequent indictment “a brazen attempt at political intimidation.” She is right. And the condemnation of her treatment and the charges filed against her have been bipartisan – even if Trump’s enablers in this current Congress have not yet found the backbone to speak out as some former Republican members have. It is well within the reasonable duties of a member of Congress to show up and ask questions at press conferences or sites of concern. Members of Congress serve as representatives of their con-
stituents and are expected to advocate for their views and needs.
Congressional authority to investigate and exercise oversight is not limited to formal committee hearings. Attending press conferences and visiting sites like the New Jersey ICE facility allow members to gather information, speak on behalf of their constituents, and communicate with the public.
For years, Trump mischaracterized any attempts to hold him accountable for his egregious lawbreaking as the “weaponization” of law enforcement against him and his followers. Now we see it was all a precursor to his actual attempts to weaponize law enforcement against those who he deems his political opponents.
Speak out. Spread the word and keep telling the truth. Show your elected officials who are standing up to the MAGA assault on democracy your support. And if your elected officials are echoing this administration’s lies or whitewashing its authoritarian lawlessness, let them hear your anger. Democracy is worth fighting for. Our rights are worth fighting for. When we organize, when we stand together, We the People are more powerful than democracy’s foes. America can survive and the truth can still win. We just cannot shy away from the fight. And that fight is here. Ben Jealous is the Executive Director of the Sierra Club and a Professor of Practice at the University of Pennsylvania.
Matthew 12:1–14
Key Text: I say unto you, that in this place is one greater than the temple.—Matthew 12:6
Introduction: What Are We Talking About? In the middle of a conversation, have you ever stopped to ask yourself, “Wait, what are we really talking about?” Imagine you’re discussing loading the dishwasher. “Everyone knows the bowls go in the top rack!” you say, but as you feel the tension grow, you realize you are arguing over something else. Whose job is it to fix this? Am I the only one who cares if the dishes come out clean? Am I seen? Many of our “disagreements” turn out to be about values, whether or not we acknowledge that reason.
Jesus knew how to take a conversation and use it to reveal a person’s heart. His discussion about Sabbath is like this. You might anticipate a legal discussion of Sabbath rules—what is or is not permitted. But Jesus turned the discussion around to reveal the motives of the Pharisees. He was more interested in talking about showing mercy. At the same time, His sweeping claims left everyone wondering, “Who is this person who calls himself Son of Man and Lord of the Sabbath? Who gave Him the right?”
Observing a seven-day week that included one day of rest (Sabbath) was a distinctive practice of ancient Israel. An ancient king might declare a rest day to celebrate a great victory, but regular, periodic rest was a revolutionary idea. For the most part, ancient peoples were expected to work every day. Sabbath was a gift that God gave through the Law of Moses (Exodus 20:8–11; Deuteronomy 5:12–15). It commemorated two of God’s mighty acts. First, God completed the work of creation and rested on the seventh day (Genesis 2:1–3; compare Exodus 20:11). Second, God liberated His people from oppression in the land of Egypt, a place where they were not allowed rest. Rest was a gift from God—even the animals got a day off (Deuteronomy 5:12–15).
Thus, Sabbath was not only a blessing but also an expression of faith. The challenge was to trust God that six days of labor would be enough to sustain life as God provided for His people. That required a lot of faith in a pre-industrial agrarian era!
The Law of Moses extended observance of Sabbath to include one year out of seven; on every seventh year, the fields were to remain uncultivated, debts would be forgiven, and enslaved people emancipated (Leviticus 25:1–8; Deuteronomy 15:1–18). In the Year of Jubilee—which came after seven Sabbath years (49 years total)—any land that
Sunday School Lesson Sunday School Lesson
had been sold would return to its original owners (Leviticus 25:8–22). Through these commands, God promised blessing and fruitfulness in the land He had given Israel as an inheritance. But keeping Sabbath had been a controversial topic for centuries by Jesus’ day. Israel’s prophets had spoken out against hypocritical Sabbath observance (examples: Isaiah 1:13; Amos 8:3–6). Jeremiah had warned Jerusalem that failure to keep Sabbath would lead to destruction (Jeremiah 17:27). The prophets also looked forward to a day when Sabbath would be kept properly, when God’s blessing would be restored to the nation of Israel, and even other nations would join in worshiping God for His mighty acts (Isaiah 66:22–23; Jeremiah 17:24–26).
The Pharisees of Jesus’ day responded by emphasizing meticulous observance of Sabbath. Their “oral Torah” (traditions passed down by word of mouth) had amplified regulations that prevented a person from even coming close to breaking the commandments. Such traditions defined what constituted “work” that could and could not be performed on the Sabbath.
I. Question of Lawfulness (Matthew 12:1–2)
Hungry Disciples (v. 1)
At that time Jesus went on the sabbath day through the corn; and his disciples were an hungred, and began to pluck the ears of corn, and to eat.
In the discourse immediately before this, Jesus told all who were tired to find “rest” in Him (Matthew 11:28–30). It meant that what Sabbath promised, Jesus offered in abundance. So, it is no surprise that immediately after this promise of abundance, Matthew recorded a controversy about Sabbath.
Travel on the day of rest was itself controversial, since an extended journey is incompatible with a day of rest. Acts 1:12 mentions “a sabbath day’s journey,” which means the distance the rabbis considered permissible to travel on a Sabbath. It was an imprecise measurement, approximately the distance a person would walk to synagogue, about a kilometer.
When we see the phrase ears of corn, we should note that maize or corn is native to North America. Thus, the word corn means a different type of grain in this context, perhaps barley or wheat. These crops were staple foods for anyone who consumed a Mediterranean diet of the era. According to the Law of Moses, one could satisfy hunger while traveling by plucking fruit or grain from nearby fields (Deuteronomy 23:24–25). It was not stealing, for this was part of the Law’s expectation to show generosity. Thus, it was perfectly acceptable to eat from the land while traveling. But the fact that this
happened on the sabbath day sparked a controversy.
Offended Teachers (v. 2)
But when the Pharisees saw it, they said unto him, behold, thy disciples do that which is not lawful to do upon the sabbath day.
The Pharisees viewed plucking grain as work since it involved forms of harvesting, threshing, and winnowing. Even miniature forms of these were “work.” So, in the view of Pharisees who observed this behavior, Christ’s disciples were violating the Law in multiple ways. The Pharisees were making what seemed like a valid point: did Jesus really intend to ignore the command of God to “remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy” (Exodus 20:8)? Instead of eating, why didn’t Jesus’ disciples fast?
The Pharisees did not denounce the disciples directly. They took up their complaint with Jesus, which displays their real concern. Beginning in Matthew 9:1–7, Jesus had done controversial things in the sight of religious teachers: forgiving sins and calling himself “the Son of man.”
These teachers were less interested in religious principles than in undermining Jesus and His popularity with crowds because Jesus represented a threat to their religious authority (John 11:48).
As these Pharisees framed the issue, there could be no debate whether the small actions of the disciples counted as work. They did not ask questions; they started with an accusation. The Pharisees assumed the rightness of their own interpretations and ignored the issue of the disciples’ hunger. They also assumed Jesus was responsible for whatever His followers were doing. If these disciples worked on the Sabbath, the observers believed that Jesus gave permission. Therefore, they point out an apparent affront against Israel’s God and His commandments. Just who does this Jesus think that He is?
II. What Is Greater?
(Matthew 12:3–8)
Than David (vv. 3–4)
But he said unto them, have ye not read what David did, when he was an hungred, and they that were with him.
Jesus did not debate the nature of work or the intention of Sabbath rest. Jesus responded as a Jewish rabbi might be expected to respond by drawing a comparison from Scripture. Jesus’ audience would not have missed that He was comparing His and His disciples’ actions to what David did … and they that were with him.
By drawing a comparison with David, Jesus not-so-subtly hinted that He possessed a kingly prerogative. This continues a central theme Matthew did not want his audience to miss: Jesus is the rightful Davidic king. The very first verse of Matthew’s Gospel calls Jesus “the son of David” (Matthew 1:1); Matthew’s genealogy takes spe-
cial interest in connecting Jesus to David (1:17, 20); other people called Jesus the “Son of David” (9:27); and here in Matthew 12, Jesus compared himself to King David to explain His actions.
How he entered into the house of God, and did eat the shewbread, which was not lawful for him to eat, neither for them which were with him, but only for the priests?
In the narrative of 1 Samuel 21:1–6, David and his men sought food from the priest Ahimelech. At the time, the only bread in the tabernacle was the bread in the holy place (shewbread), which the Law allowed priests to eat but no one else (see Leviticus 24:8–9). Still, Ahimelech recognized David as God’s anointed king, and he nonetheless gave David and his men the bread. It is a story about a king and his men in desperate need.
Jesus did not say that extreme hunger is an exception that allows breaking ceremonial rules. In fact, Jesus taught that violating a single command of God made a person “least in the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 5:19). And unlike David’s men, Jesus’ disciples were not on the run from enemies.
However, the statement in this verse implies a comparison from David (a lesser example) to Jesus (a greater example). Ahimelech acted in mercy, but more importantly, he recognized the authority of a king, one whom God’s prophet had anointed. Jesus was also a king, a greater one. If it were right for King David to eat shewbread, it would be even more acceptable for Jesus’ followers to eat “bread” that God had provided them, for they were crucial people of the Messiah’s mission. They should be granted at least as much leeway as David’s men were!
Than the Temple (vv. 5–6)
Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless?
Jesus provided a second scriptural argument. Once again, He did not say there are exceptions to the rules about rest on the Sabbath, nor did He minimize His disciples’ actions. Instead, He made a claim about His own authority and identity.
For ordinary Jews, work stopped on the Sabbath. But what about priests? By necessity, their duties continued. The temple had tasks that needed tending every day, like daily offerings and changing the bread of the presence (Numbers 28:1–8). Thus, priests carried out their duties in the sacred space on every Sabbath day. That is what Jesus meant when He said they profane the sabbath. Neither the Law of Moses nor the Pharisees’ regulations forbade this. That is why these priests were blameless. However, skeptics might wonder why any of this is relevant to what Jesus and His followers were allowed to do. Jesus
did not claim to be a Levitical priest, and the disciples were not performing sacrifices. So Jesus continued. But I say unto you, that in this place is one greater than the temple. Jesus had compared himself to David indirectly. Here, He compared himself to the temple directly, showing precisely the point He was making. If Jesus claimed to be greater than the temple, that meant He was greater than the location where God’s people honored His holy presence.
For one thing, a temple that lasted forever was supposed to be built by a promised Son of David (2 Samuel 7:13). Jesus accepted His title as David’s greater Son (see comments on Matthew 12:3, above). Furthermore, Jesus claimed to fulfill the function of the temple. The temple mediated the presence of God, and the priestly sacrifices for sin were meant to cover God’s people: “The priest shall make an atonement for his sin that he hath committed, and it shall be forgiven him” (Leviticus 4:35). But Jesus offered forgiveness of sins without needing a temple of stone and wood. He could only do this with the authority of God (Matthew 9:1–8). Later, when Jesus observed Passover with His disciples, He used bread and wine as images of a new covenant with God’s people (26:26–29; compare Jeremiah 31:31–34). Thus what the temple was intended to do, Jesus fulfilled in and through himself. These words did nothing to quell the conflict between Jesus and the Pharisees. The Pharisees objected to Jesus’ Sabbath practice, but their real objection was to Him. But His responses made even greater claims of authority! He portrayed himself as a king on a mission, and He portrayed His disciples as priests who serve in the presence of a greater temple.
Than Sacrifice (v. 7)
But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.
Jesus turned His attention to a related issue arising from the Pharisees’ criticism. Hosea 6:6 says, “For I desired mercy, and not sacrifice; and the knowledge of God more than burnt offerings.” Offerings, the sacrifices that God himself instituted in the Law of Moses, could be rejected when they were given hypocritically—meaning when a person was otherwise being unmerciful toward others.
God redeemed His people through an act of mercy, and this fact could not be ignored in a setting of worship.
The prophet Hosea understood mercy, for God had called him to marry a sexually immoral woman (Hosea 1:2).
Hosea’s wife abandoned him, but God called him to find her again, to pay the price of her freedom, and to take her back as his wife (3:1–2). Hosea’s marriage became a dramatic sign of the kind of merciful,
Church Directory
gracious love God shows for wayward people. It anticipated the way that God would give Jesus to save people from the enslaving powers of sin (Romans 6:18). Therefore, to live without mercy is the greatest affront to God (see also the parable in Matthew 18:21–35). Even worse, Jesus said the Pharisees had condemned the guiltless. The disciples had not done anything wrong in the first place, and yet still they were accused. Jesus’ opponents had lost sight of God’s mercy, trusting in their own rigor to keep the Law and to receive God’s blessing. Even when Jesus, the very image of God’s mercy, stood before them, they could not see past their own judgments. They were blind to the glory of the King.
Summary (v. 8)
For the Son of man is LORD even of the sabbath day.
The story ends with a memorable saying, which is both a summary and a climax. Instead of saying “I,” Jesus calls himself the Son of man. This title had a complex history. A figure called “one like the Son of man” is mentioned in the vision of Daniel 7:13. The figure from Daniel is mysterious: someone to whom God gives “dominion, and glory, and a kingdom” (Daniel 7:14). Scholars disagree about how much this phrase was used as a title in Jesus’ day. It could be that some people associated the title Son of man with political and military power. Alternatively, Jesus might have adopted the term to “fly under the radar” and present himself as a different kind of ruler. Elsewhere, Jesus claims that the Son of man possesses authority. Jesus had shown that the Son of man had the authority to forgive sins, something God alone can do (Matthew 9:1–8). Jesus had also used the title to speak of himself as a lowly figure: “The Son of man hath not where to lay his head” (8:20). Here, Jesus claimed that He, as the Son of man, could be the one to establish the meaning of faithful observance of Sabbath. Since the Jewish people understood Sabbath as God’s gift to them, claiming authority over Sabbath was bold. It would mean that Jesus was responsible for creation, which was the reason why God had the right to give Sabbath in the first place. Additionally, the term Lord could be applied to any figure of authority, but it was frequently used to translate the divine name of God from Hebrew into Greek. To claim to be Lord even of the sabbath day left little room for doubt: Jesus possessed authority belonging to God. Jesus will say more about this after Peter calls Jesus “the Christ” (Matthew 16:16). He will speak of the Son of man as one who shall be arrested, put to death, and rise from the grave (17:22–23). And one day, the Son of man will return “in the
Jeffries Calls ‘Big, Ugly, Immoral Budget,’ Reckless Immoral Document
By April Ryan BlackPressUSA
“Ripping health care away from more than 17 million people. That disgusts me,” admonished House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries during a speech before the House vote on what he calls “The Big Ugly Bill.”
During Jeffries' speech, Democrat Congressman Kwesi Mfume of Maryland told this reporter that “Johnson and Trump think they have the votes.” Jeffries notes that Democrats only need four Republicans to stand with them to defeat the legislation.
President Trump called all the Republican holdouts who were planning to vote against his “Big Beautiful Bill” that the Congressional Budget Office says will add $3.3 trillion to the deficit.
The legislation’s provisions cut Medicare or Medicaid assistance for 16 million Americans as well as SNAP funding that provides food assistance to those in need, while codifying tax breaks for the wealthy, who need no assistance at all.
“The eligibility for the children’s health insurance program will also be diminished,” said Jeffries. He stressed that the legislation negatively impacts nutrition-
It is very difficult these days in the United States of America to find your normal peace and keep your sanity, especially when you live in a country with daily turmoil coming into your life from the legislative moods and moves of government leaders who do not seem to be in the right or legal state of mind in most instances and expect the populace to do as they say as though they do not have a mind of their own or voted for the legislations which they are receiving. This is the kind of atmosphere which draws the ULTIMTE PROTEST!
Protests of some kind or another have been the mainstay of the new Trump Administration in the United States. There has been chaos from day one without seemingly any kind of rest stop. For the most part, government protests have not been just local, but nationwide. At the beginning of both Trump administrations were the protests surrounding the Texas border and Mr. Trump’s desire to keep out immigrants. The new administration has taken up where the other one left off, and the BBB (Big Beautiful Bill) signed on July 4, 2025 allocates BILLIONS of dollars to build the WALL, while at the same time has CUT BILLIONS from Medicaid and assistance to the dependent children and disabled citizens.
In addition to attempting to make certain that there are no immigrants, the number of arrests and deportations of “undocumented persons” has reached an astronomical number, with many of those arrested and deported unfairly. Many of the deported were NOT criminals and many were gainfully employed persons taking care of families, and some even sending money home to families in their native countries. People speaking accented English or no English at all, or having a complexion which does not look American enough, are afraid to be seen outside their homes in areas where ICE (Immigration and Customs Enforcement) is active. Recently, Mr. Trump has stated that offsprings of immigrants with criminal records should be deported. He certainly was not thinking when he said that! His parents were immigrants and he is a CRIMINAL. Should he deport HIMSELF!
al assistance programs and the nation's farmers and is “an all-out assault on the healthcare of the American people.”
Congresswoman Sydney Kamlager-Dove of Los Angeles told this reporter, “The righteous indignation of these Republicans who are stealing taxpayers' hard-earned money to give to the richest of the rich is beyond the pale.” She feels Republicans rushed this bill for votes. “A bill this large and impactful should have been given longer than 15 minutes in committee. It should have been given longer than the days we had to review it.”
In addition to her peers on the Hill, Dove wants more time for everyday Americans to discuss the legislation and its impact. “My hope is that we have special sessions across the country so that constituents across the nation know EXACTLY how they will be screwed by Trump and his sycophants.”
Jeffries issued a dire warning as he worked to galvanize those who were ready to vote, telling the membership that “all of us as leaders have a responsibility to make life better for the American people.”
Pointing an oratory finger at his peers across the aisle and the current presidential administration, Jeffries said that what we have seen
from Republican leadership [for] “the first six months of the administration has been characterized as chaos, cruelty and corruption that is not real leadership.” He notes instead that the leadership on this bill failed to demonstrate “courage,” “compassion,” or “commitment.”
The Big Beautiful Bill would also impact the Affordable Care Act, better known as Obamacare, which was signed into law by President Barack Obama.
Obama issued a statement in the lead-up to the House vote, stating, "More than 16 million Americans are at risk of losing their health care because Republicans in Congress are rushing to pass a bill that would cut federal funding for Medicaid and weaken the Affordable Care Act. If the House passes this bill, it will increase costs and hurt working-class families for generations to come. Call your representative today and tell them to vote no on this bill."
According to Jeffries, Republicans are supporting a “reckless budget that is an immoral document” that tears people down — it is “an allout assault on the American people.” The congressman from Brooklyn encouraged fellow Democrats and his Republican colleagues to “vote no” against the bill.
Shavon Arline-Bradley, President and CEO of the National Council of Negro Women, had this to say while Jeffries was addressing the nation. “We are in the fight of our lives. The Black Caucus, Black institutions and leaders in media, politics, and civil rights are working diligently to hold the line on this Bill. The collective power of every mobilizing voice has held strong resulting in some nec-
essary ‘No’ Votes. If we can stop the bill, we can stop the health and economic burden on our most vulnerable.”
“Stand and Fight for the Future of America”
The following official statement from Democrats, condemns President Trump’s Big, Beautiful Bill:
“We believe in an America where hard work is rewarded,
not punished. Where families can afford health care, put food on the table, and live with dignity.
“This fight is about more than budgets and numbers— it’s about whether we lift people up or leave them behind.
“We will stand and fight for the future of America. For working people. For families. For the next generation.
As I sat in church this morning before the pastor gave his text scripture, Romans Chapter 14 came to me and I read it on my cellular telephone. Who is to judge? Man, or God? Our President, Congressmen/women and the Su-
preme Court members need to get in tune with God, and we need to get ‘in cinque’ and pray for that DEVINE INTERVENTION.
Sports & Entertainment Sports & Entertainment
Dallas Wings Rookie Paige Bueckers Selected to the WNBA All-Star Game
By Cedric Bailey Sports Editor
Dallas Wings rookie guard
Paige Bueckers was named a 2025 WNBA All-Star Game starter, as announced by the league this afternoon. The 10 starters were selected from across the WNBA without regard to conference affiliation. Current WNBA players and a media panel joined fans in selecting the All-Star starters. Fans accounted for 50 percent of the vote, while current WNBA players and a media panel accounted for 25 percent each.
Bueckers, who was the lone first-year player selected, leads all rookies in scoring (18.4), assists (5.8) and steals (1.85), while listing fourth in rebounds (4.4) and blocks (0.92). She has the second-highest scoring performance among all players this season with her 35-point outing at Phoenix on June 11, and is the lone first-year player with a points-assists double-double this year.
All three Indiana Fever All-Stars will be on the same team for the WNBA All-Star Game in Indianapolis on July 19. The rosters, as chosen by captains Caitlin Clark of the Fever and Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx, were announced Tuesday.
Sabbath
Continued from page 4 glory of his Father with his angels” to bring just reward to God’s people (16:27–28).
Conclusion: Lordship Is the Issue
This story looks at first like it will show how to observe Sabbath: as a gift and not a burden. Instead, the story is about the one who fulfills what Sabbath promises. It is about His authority and the blessing He brings. Jesus is a King, greater than His ancestor David. Jesus’ disciples were like priests because they served a person greater than the temple. And Jesus is the Son of Man, for He is the Creator and Redeemer. He is God, who gave Sabbath in the first place.
Regardless of our understanding of Sabbath observance, all Christians can affirm that Jesus is Lord—even Lord of the Sabbath. Today’s text challenges readers to acknowledge Jesus’ authority. As King, He is able to provide good things: forgiveness, rest, and an eternal kingdom. The Lord of the Sabbath has given himself freely for our sakes, and we are responsible for showing mercy. If you want to honor the one with authority over Sabbath, start there.
Thought to Remember: Jesus gives His people true rest.
Standard Publishing. KJV
Standard Lesson Commentary® 2024-2025 (p. 1058). (Function). Kindle Edition.
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Clark and Collier, the two leading vote-getters in fan balloting, first drafted from the eight remaining starters then filled out their teams picking from the 12 reserves. They also made one trade: swapping head coaches.
Minnesota’s Cheryl Reeve initially was assigned to guide Team Clark, since the coach of the team with the league’s best record as of July 3 went to the player with the most votes.
The New York Liberty’s Sandy Brondello, coach of the team with the secondbest record at that point, was originally assigned to Team Collier. But since Reeve is Collier’s coach with the Lynx, the captains opted to switch coaches.
The 2025 AT&T WNBA All-Star Game will be played at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis on Saturday, July 19 on ABC, Disney+ and ESPN+ (8:30 p.m. ET). The game broadcast will be preceded by a half-hour edition of WNBA Countdown presented by Google on ABC (8 p.m. ET).
The 2025 AT&T WNBA All-Star Game will be the centerpiece of three full days packed with WNBA activities, including the WNBA STARRY® 3-Point Contest, Kia WNBA Skills Challenge and “WNBA Live presented by Panini.” The WNBA STARRY 3-Point Contest and Kia WNBA Skills Challenge will both air on ESPN on Friday, July 18 beginning at 8 p.m. ET.
Cedric Bailey Sports
#5 Paige Bueckers reaction after hitting a 3 point shot at the buzzer from the AAC. Photo Courtesy of the Dallas Wings
Here’s What’s Happening Here’s What’s Happening
Ongoing Events
Are you a resident of the Rolling Hills area? Join the Glencrest Civic League Neighborhood Association and become part of our mission to create a safe, secure, clean, and well-maintained community. We actively seek residents’ support for our mission by spearheading neighborhood committee initiatives, coordinating, supporting, and planning various community events, actively engaging local leaders and nurturing a strong sense of community unity.
Join us for our Monthly Community Meetings:
• When: 10:00 AM on the 3rd Saturday of Each Month
• Where: C.R. Bradley Center, 2600 Timberline Drive, Fort Worth, TX 76119. For more information and to become a member, check out our Facebook Page (Glencrest Civic League Neighborhood Association) or visit our website at https:// www.glencrest.org. You may also email us at glencrest. na@gmail.com.
Fort Worth Wiley College Alumni Club Membership Meeting: Second Saturday of each month, 1 p.m., Carter Metropolitan CME Church, 4601 Wichita St. Fort Worth 76119. For additional information, contact one of the following members: Helen Crowder (817) 688-8937, Larry Pugh (817) 293-6543, Daisy Kahn (817) 292-1077.
I.M. Terrell Alumni Association Membership Meeting, 1st Tuesday of each month, 5 p.m., I. M. Terrell Stem/VPA Academy, 1411 I M Terrell Way, Fort Worth 76102.
M.L.Kirkpatrick Alumni Association Membership Meeting: First Saturday of each month at 2 p.m. at Shiloh Missionary Baptist Church, 2823 North Houston Street, Fort Worth 76106.
P.L. Dunbar Alumni Association Memberships Meeting: 3rd Saturday of each month at 3p.m. at The CenterFor STOP SIX HERI-
TAGE, 5100 Willie St. next to Young Men’s Leadership Academy, Fort Worth. pldalumniassoc@gmail.com
Como Alumni. Every third Tureday, 7 p.m., Como Community Center, 4900 Horne Street, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Join the Texas Coalition of Black Democrats! We meet every fourth Saturday of the month from 5-6 p.m. at the Charles F. Griffin Sub-courthouse, 3500 Miller Ave. Fort Worth 76119. New Monthly Speakers.
United Methodist Church, 522 Missouri Ave. Fort Worth 76104. The Food pantry is open on the third Saturday of each month from 8 -10 a.m. For questions or concerns, please contact the Church Office at (817) 336-2117.
Forest Hill Ushers Union, “Welcomes All Church Ushers/Doorkeepers in Tarrant County” Juniors & Young People (7-18)
Young Adults (19-35) Seniors (36+) Affiliations:
Texas Church Ushers
Southern Region Ushers
National United Church Ushers Association of America, Inc. (NUCUAAA) For more information contact: Wanda King (817) 821-3017, Helen Moore (817) 584-7370, Thomas E. Troupe (817) 2292509
AARP Southeast Chapter #4508. Meets the 4th Wednesday of each month at 10:30 a.m., Southside Community Center, 959 E. Rosedale, Fort Worth, TX 76104. For additional information contact Debra Rivers by email:riv3ers@sbcglobal.net.
The Fort Worth Association of Federated Women’s Clubs organization aims to unite women in their efforts to serve the underserved, strengthen the community, and create opportunities for volunteerism, civic activism, education, and cultural enrichment. Below are some of the organization’s community service projects: Individu-
als must provide their own transport action
Senior Bingo - bingo and health speakers are on the first Friday of each month. From 10:00 till 12:00
Our program, Senior Bingo, aims to combat social isolation among seniors. Research has shown that older adults who experience social isolation are at an increased risk for cognitive decline, heart disease, and a variety of mental and physical health issues.
To address this concern, we organize a monthly social event where seniors can connect and engage their minds. This gathering takes place in an area with the lowest life expectancy in the state. Participants have the chance to socialize, play games, and share meals. Additionally, we invite guest speakers to discuss important topics, including health and legal issues.
Senior Box ProgramBoxs of food first Friday 12:30 till 2:30
FWAFWC partners with the Tarrant Area Food Bank to distribute food through the Senior Box Program. This program, part of the Commodity Supplemental Food Program, allows qualifying seniors aged 60 and older to receive a monthly box of USDA foods to supplement their diets. Each box contains shelf-stable items, including canned fruits and vegetables, cereal, canned meats, juice, and a block of cheese.
Some local food banks have observed an increase in the number of seniors using their services toward the end of each month. They found that seniors rely on these services to help them get by until their next Social Security checks. The Senior Box Program is an ideal fit for the needs of seniors in the area near our building. We distribute the food boxes from our location, which is situated in one of the city’s designated food deserts. In this area, some residents may have to travel up to an hour by bus to access healthy food options.
Diaper Bank - Diapers first Friday 12:30 till 3:00. FWAFWC is a partner agency of the Junior League of Fort Worth (JLFW). The
JLFW Diaper Bank aims to eliminate diaper needs and enhance the physical, mental, and financial well-being of children and adults throughout Tarrant County. It provides diapers at no cost to local nonprofit partners that assist individuals facing poverty, mobility issues, or health limitations. Since its inception, the JLFW Diaper Bank has provided over 2 million diapers to nearly 100 nonprofit organizations.
Computer Classes -Computer classes each Monday 1:00 till 2:30 FWAFWC has partnered with Goodwill of North Texas to offer computer classes at our facility. These classes provide an invaluable resource to the community by equipping individuals with essential computer skills and knowledge. By enhancing residents’ digital literacy, participants will learn how to navigate the internet and apply for jobs online. Additionally, the classes will cover important topics such as online safety, email usage, social media, and other forms of digital communication.
Wed. July, 16, 2025
Art Tales at the Carter! Powerful Patterns Spot polka dots, stripes, and zigzags across the Carter! Enjoy a pattern-filled morning of stories, hands-on fun, and a performance by A Real Mad Hatter.
Wed. July, 23, 2025
Art Tales at the Carter! Fun, Feathers and Scales From sea creatures to prairie dwellers, animals take center stage! Explore wild artworks with The Creature Teacher, plus themed stories, games, and art making.
Wed. July, 30, 2025
Art Tales at the Carter! Material Mixup Wrap up the summer with a creative celebration! Repurpose materials into imaginative art and enjoy music from Brandi Waller Pace, alongside favorite activities from the season.
Sat. Aug, 12, 2025
10th Annual Healthy Lives
Matter: Alzheimer’s Education Seminar. 9:00 am - 2:00 pm. TCC Trinity River Campus, 300 Trinity Campus Circle, Fort Worth TX 76102
Public Transportation
Help
Are you in need of transportation services? Here’s a list of resources that are available to you across Tarrant County. Trinity Metro TEXRail operates daily between downtown Fort Worth and DFW International Airport’s Terminal B. Serving Fort Worth, North Richland Hills, Grapevine. RIDETRINITYMETRO.org/texrail or 817-2158600
Trinity Railway Express operates between downtown Fort Worth and downtown Dallas. Serving Fort Worth, Hurst, Irving, Dallas. trinityrailwayexpress.org or 817215-8600
ZIPZONE on-demand service areas: Alliance, Crowley, Mercantile. Trinity Metro has expanded the Southside ZIPZONE to reach the TCU campus, the Fort Worth Zoo and the entertainment district along the West 7th corridor, including Crockett Row and Montgomery Plaza. Formerly known as the Near Southside ZIPZONE, the service area will continue to include access to the hospitals and facilities within the Medical District and the many popular destinations along Magnolia Avenue, plus grocery stores and other services throughout the Southside. Southside ZIPZONE riders may also connect to TEXRail and Trinity Railway Express at Fort Worth T&P Station or to bus routes 1, 2, 3, 4, 5a, 5b, 6, 7, 9, 10, 14, 24 and The Dash.
Hours of operation
Current schedule:
Daily: 6 a.m.-8 p.m.
Sunday-Wednesday:6 a.m.8 p.m.
Thursday-Saturday: 6 a.m.midnight RIDETRINITYMETRO.
org/zipzone or 817-215-8600
Service modifications
June 2025
Trinity Metro is launching the Blue Line, updating hours and increasing frequency beginning on Sunday, June 8. The new color-coded route replaces Molly the Trolley and will feature bright blue buses with downtownthemed designs. Additionally, several modifications will be implemented to reflect necessary detours for long-term construction projects across the system.
Route 2 Camp Bowie — Update the turn-by-turn directions to accurately represent the current route the bus is taking to bypass the ongoing long-term construction project along Camp Bowie Blvd. between Montgomery and University Drive.
Route 12 Samuels/Mercantile Center Station — Update the turn-by-turn directions to accurately represent the current route the bus is taking to bypass the ongoing long-term construction project at NE 28th Street and Decatur Avenue.
Molly The Trolley — Rebrand as Blue Line, change service hours to 7 a.m.-7 p.m., and increase frequency to every 7 minutes.
Orange Line — Update the turn-by-turn directions to accurately represent the current route the bus is taking to bypass the ongoing long-term construction project at NE 28th Street and Decatur Avenue.
Route 52 Hulen — Update the turn-by-turn directions to accurately represent the current route the bus is taking to bypass the ongoing long-term construction project along Camp Bowie Boulevard between Montgomery Street and University Drive. Route 91 North Side Station/Normandale — Update the turn-by-turn directions to accurately represent the current route the bus is taking to bypass the ongoing long-term construction project at NE 28th Street and Decatur Avenue.
