A New Chapter

Parade magazine ran a letter that Barrack Obama wrote to his children explaining why he led the family through two years of campaigning and now life in the White House. I think it help explains why the majority of the voters turned to him in November. There is a sense of hope that he will make a difference that can only help the country through difficult transitions to a new era. There are doubters, but as a hopeful person, I find the renewal of hope among such a wide spectrum of people incredibly fresh and joyful.

When I was a young man, I thought life was all about me-about how I'd make my way in the world, become successful, and get the things I want. But then the two of you came into my world with all your curiosity and mischief and those smiles that never fail to fill my heart and light up my day. And suddenly, all my big plans for myself didn't seem so important anymore. I soon found that the greatest joy in my life was the joy I saw in yours. And I realized that my own life wouldn't count for much unless I was able to ensure that you had every opportunity for happiness and fulfillment in yours. In the end, girls, that's why I ran for President: because of what I want for you and for every child in this nation.

…She [your grandmother] helped me understand that America is great not because it is perfect but because it can always be made better-and that the unfinished work of perfecting our union falls to each of us. It's a charge we pass on to our children, coming closer with each new generation to what we know America should be. I hope both of you will take up that work, righting the wrongs that you see and working to give others the chances you've had. Not just because you have an obligation to give something back to this country that has given our family so much-although you do have that obligation.

But because you have an obligation to yourself. Because it is only when you hitch your wagon to something larger than yourself that you will realize your true potential…. Love, Dad

My prayer for the congregation?

Dear God, You are Lord of all. Until the day when your rule is supreme, we turn to leaders to help govern our nations. Throughout generations, your hand has led leaders to arise from the most unlikely circumstances. We are hopeful that our new president will follow your call for justice, renewal, accountability, and service. We pray for our country, but we also pray for this man and his family. Give them guidance, keep them safe, allow them to grow closer as a family, let laughter be heard at the dinner table, let peaceful sleep refresh their minds, and let a growing faith surround them. Let us as a country be called to the same challenges given to young children: righting wrongs and serving others. Let us find the potential that you have given to share your gospel. Let us find hope in our collective union today. Amen.