Our Call to Prayer

George and Laura Bush welcomed Mr. Obama and his wife, Michelle, to The White House before the ceremony. Photo: Andrew Councill for The New York Times

Inauguration Day, 2009. No matter who you voted for (or didn’t vote for), the day of a new administration has come. Former President Bush and Laura (how classy is she?) are back at home in Texas, and President Obama and his family are settling into Washington. It was an historic, emotional day, filled with symbolism and pride in the democratic process.

I couldn’t help wondering what everyone was thinking, from Sasha and Malia to George Sr. to Aretha Franklin (did you see that hat?). But at the end of the day, after the ceremonies, parades, and balls, it all comes down to this: Politics aside we are called to support our new President as we did President Bush—with fervent prayer, not only today, but every day for the next four years. As I heard Bishop T.D. Jakes say in an interview, "When he does well, we all do well."


Pastor Rick Warren gave the invocation as President-elect Barack Obama and President George W. Bush bowed their heads during the 56th Presidential Inauguration ceremony for Barack Obama as the 44th President of the United States. Photo: Pool photo by Pat Benic

I imagine President Bush is feeling “lighter” tonight, and I imagine there will be a point very soon when the weight of the Presidency will settle on President Obama’s shoulders like a ton of bricks (if it hasn't already). He can’t shoulder that responsibility alone. No man could. So let’s purpose to lift him up, that God’s will be done in him and through him.

...if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land. Now my eyes will be open and my ears attentive to the prayers offered in this place. ~ 2 Chronicles 7:14-15 (NIV)



Sasha approved of her father's performance. Photo: Susan Walsh/Associated Press

All photos from nytimes.com