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. 2 Chronicles 7:14 (NIV)
We “do” the 4th of July. Red, white, and blue decorations dot the various tables and chests in my home. I wear special tee shirts and jewelry that I accumulated over the years I spent in politics. The flag waves in the breeze from its standard in the front of the house. Phrases from the music from the Let Freedom Sing concert keep popping up in my mind in preparation for the performance…”I believe in America, I believe in you and me…”.
Traditionally, our pastor uses the Sunday around the 4th to preach a sermon that incorporates our Christian heritage as a nation and the responsibilities we have as Christians in our sphere of influence. As the time for the pastoral prayer approached, he mentioned a program promoted by the Family Research Council appropriately named “Call 2 Fall“—taken from 2 Chronicles 7:14. As he disappeared behind the pulpit, he urged everyone to drop to their knees before the Lord in repentant prayer for God to reshape our lives and renew our land.
There was some irony in the midst of this because the church sign was vandalized this weekend with a poster that said, “Pray less, think more.” I’m not sure what the vandal thought would be accomplished but I do know the enemy of the believer is on double duty because his time is short.
As Pastor Mark prayed, I took a quick peek from the choir loft and it was overwhelming to see the entire congregation on their knees—twice (two services). What better endeavor for a church family than to be on their knees in humility before the One who made us? Surely, God hears us.
I don’t know what is in the future for our nation but I do know the One in control. Take a few moments to get on your knees today to plead for our country.
Freedom is never free.