It is hard not to consider the inauguration of Barack Obama on Tuesday to be one of the most significant acts of modern history. It ‘augurs’ well that the occasion affords the world an opportunity to move on and to begin again to address peace and justice and economic stability and opportunity.
It was explained to me that Psalm 2 of the bible was read as every King of the Old Testament times was enthroned. The Psalm (which, albeit Greek, has a suitably Irish meaning of ‘song sung to the harp’) encourages the new ruler to rely on God and to ask him for assistance in ruling.
In the Gospel (which means Good News) of Mark the language of that song is again evoked in the account of John the Baptist preparing Jesus to commence his revolutionary Ministry.
In two weeks three of The Presidents’ Club’s Trustees will have the pleasure of leading the Irish delegation attending the 57th Annual National [President’s] Prayer Breakfast in Washington DC, hosted by Member of Congress from both Houses and from across the aisle. Every President since ‘Ike’ Eisenhower in 1953 has attend and offered a keynote address/prayer.
President Ronald Reagan addressed the Breakfast with these memorable words:
“America was founded by people who believed that God was their rock of safety. I recognize we must be cautious in claiming that God is on our side, but I think it’s all right to keep asking if we’re on His side.”
Whilst some may prefer I didn’t, I pray to God that Tuesday goes well, I pray protection over the new First Family, I pray the occasion is seized by men and women of goodwill around the globe as a new opportunity to deliver peace, justice and prosperity and, above all I pray that President Obama will keep asking God for wisdom and guidance.
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