Chaplain Leroy Gilbert
The Coast Guard
AL
Date of Prayer: 05/25/2001
Opening Prayer Given by the Guest Chaplain:
Eternal God, before transacting the business of this country, we the people of the United States of America reverently pause to invoke Your blessings and presence upon the Representatives and the proceedings of this House today.
Lord, we are most grateful for our system of government inspired into existence by Your divine principles of humanity, service, freedom, equality and justice for all.
May Members of this governing body propose, debate, chisel and bring forth bills and ideas that are pleasing in Your sight and serve as a beacon of light to other nations of what can be accomplished by a country whose motto is "In God We Trust."
Lord, we live in a rapidly changing world and we are faced with challenges that compel our country to make changes. Nevertheless, grant us the wisdom that our first response to a changing world will not be, "How should it be changed?" but "What do we stand for that should never change," and then figure out how to change everything else.
As the decisionmakers in Congress contemplate the best course of action for the future of America, may the words of 2 Chronicles 7:14 be planted in their minds and hearts.
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall 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."
May God bless America. In Thy name we pray. Amen.
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