With each passing day, the picture of events in our Nation’s Capitol last week grows darker. Federal prosecutors are saying that rioters intended to capture and assassinate elected officials. Capitol Police were beaten, one was bludgeoned to death, and another took his own life following the incident. The office of the Speaker of the House and other offices were entered. Items were stolen, including documents containing sensitive information. Artwork was damaged. Windows were shattered. Law and order were replaced by violence and chaos. Over 20,000 National Guard troops have been dispatched to Washington DC to ensure order during the coming week and the Inauguration.
Among those encouraging and inciting the rioters were so-called evangelical Christian clergy. There was nothing evangelical and nothing Christian about what happened and there won’t be if this kind of deplorable behavior continues in our land. It’s come to this.
We are not yet sure how or when this dire situation will be resolved. So, while we watch from afar, let us pray for our nation and for ourselves. And let our prayers guide our actions. It's the least we can do.
O Lord our Governor, bless the leaders of our land, that we may be a people at peace among ourselves and a blessing to other nations of the earth.
Lord, keep this nation under your care.
To the President and members of the Cabinet, to Governors of States, Mayors of Cities, and to all in administrative authority, grant wisdom and grace in the exercise of their duties.
To Senators and Representatives, and those who make our laws in States, Cities, and Towns, give courage, wisdom, and foresight to provide for the needs of all our people, and to fulfill our obligations in the community of nations.
Give grace to your servants, O Lord.
To the Judges and officers of our Courts give understanding and integrity, that human rights may be safeguarded and justice served.
Give grace to your servants, O Lord.
And finally, teach our people to rely on your strength and to accept their responsibilities to their fellow citizens, that they may elect trustworthy leaders and make wise decisions for the well-being of our society; that we may serve you faithfully in our generation and honor your holy Name.
For yours is the kingdom, O Lord, and you are exalted as head above all. Amen.
(Book of Common Prayer, page 821)
Blessings,
The Very Rev'd Ron Pogue
Interim Rector
St. Martin-in-the-Fields Episcopal Church
Keller, Texas
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