Gen. Washington's Prayer

You've probably noticed that I haven't been getting into the events of the day, which at this time would be analyzing last night's debate (one of those "eyes of the beholder" deals); the latest polls (depends on who and how); who said what (every single word under scrutiny!); and who didn't say this or that (good grief!), etc. etc. etc. I'm not saying I won't ever get into the current election happenings in the next 27 days, but I think we're all hearing enough of these things. Don't get me wrong. I understand why much of it is necessary, but I just don't have the stomach for talking about it right now. What a divided state our country is in! May the Lord help us.

One of the things I wanted to do here for this series was to include a few quotes from some of the people who were instrumental in the building of this nation in the first place. George Washington is an appropriate person to begin with, wouldn't you say? I found this little prayer in a gospel tract containing the prayers of some U.S. presidents who have led America in praying for peace and protection throughout history. According to this tract, "From our earliest days as a nation, a legacy of blessing has been poured on America through the prayers of her presidents." Would that their prayers would follow us today!

This was Mr. Washington's prayer, written on June 14, 1783 to all the governors of the newly freed states, and urging them to join him in praying for their new nation:

"Almighty God, We make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in Thy holy protection: that Thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government, and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States at large.

"And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation. Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord, Amen."

We need a blessing! We need those quality of charities outlined here in the second paragraph! Can we hope to be a happy nation again?! Grant it Lord, please! Oh that the prayer of President Washington would be a charge down through the corridors of time to help us today!

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