National Day of Prayer

As many of you are likely aware, today is the National Day of Prayer, which has been annually proclaimed by the President of the US since its institution by Congress in 1952. Surprisingly, what will probably get more recognition today in the public square is a Mexican holiday, Cinco de Mayo. Recently, there has been a political battle over the constitutionality of the President asking the citizens of the US to pray for our nation. This has not received much media attention, but the group spearheading the campaign to remove the National Day of Prayer is still fighting. What astounded me was that the group (Americans United for the Separation of Church and State) is headed by a Reverend - a "church" leader. Although I pray none of you are affiliated with this church, I find it disappointing that the United Church of Christ would be involved in removing the President's right to ask people of all Faiths to pray for our nation. Another thing most people don't know is that the legal term "separation of church and state" is not found in the US Constitution. It was originally used by President Jefferson in a letter he wrote to the Danbury Baptists. It was brought to public attention by the Supreme Court in 1878 and has gained a stronger foothold since. Fortunately, there exists a group of people who pray every day specifically for our President - The Presidential Prayer Team.

With this said, please join me in prayer today (and everyday), praying for our nation's leaders to have wisdom and to follow God's guidance. For we are commanded: "Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus." 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

In your prayers I ask that you pray for Thomas and I as we near holy matrimony, giving us the wisdom to preserve our vows and the perseverance to live them out in an active choice of love.