I was once at a community meeting where the district congressman was present. There was a meal and I was asked the say the blessing.
As I thanked the Lord for the food, I also prayed for the congressman. Afterwards, a person came to me and thanked me for praying for the congressman. He stated it was unusual to hear a prayer for a politician. I was just doing my job as a community minister, but also following my faith in praying for all people.
Do people of faith pray for elected leaders? As Christianity grew – and became more formal – an overseer wrote to a young pastor with these words, “First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for everyone, for kings and all who are in high positions, so that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and dignity. This is right and is acceptable in the sight of God our Savior” (1 Timothy 2: 1-4).
This is quite clear in urging prayers for our leaders as they guide our communities and nation. Often, my prayers are for our leaders to have the wisdom to make the right decisions that will help people. I may not agree with the decisions made, but that should not prevent me from praying for those in leadership.
Years ago, children were taught a simple way of praying entitled, “The Five Finger Prayer.”
The thumb is close to you, so this is a reminder to pray for those close to you. This is your family, friends and others you are close too.
The pointing finger is a reminder to pray for those who point you in the right direction, such as teachers, supervisors, counselors, nurses and other helpers.
The next finger is the tallest finger. This reminds us to pray for those who lead: our elected officials, those who work for the local, state and federal governments, police, resource officers and others.
The ring finger is the weakest finger. It is a reminder to pray for those in need of healing, help and strength.
Lastly, the pinkie finger is a reminder to not forget to pray for yourself. It is in praying for yourself you are able to pray for others. The prayers do not always have to follow the same order. Some days a stranger may be on your heart and need prayer, and some days a friend may need prayers. Whoever we pray for, we are urged to pray for all.
I found a prayer that I believe speaks to our time of need:
God we have become like a ship that has lost its compass.
Grant wisdom and peace to our national leaders,
and guide them to seek a common vision for our common good.
When solutions seem impossible, show them the way.
Where there are differences, let your love prevail.
Heal our divisions and heal our land, we pray.
In Jesus name we pray. Amen.
Eric Reece is the faith columnist for The Graham Star. He can be reached via email, ereece@wnccumc.net.