Good politics begin with good theology. Prayers are essential. I was struck by Listener prayers for our nation, podcasted this morning.
I love that the first prayer offered is #24 For an Election, from the Book of Common Prayer:
Almighty God, to whom we must account for all our powers and privileges: Guide the people of the United States (or of this community) in the election of officials and representatives; that, by faithful administration and wise laws, the rights of all may be protected and our nation be enabled to fulfill your purposes; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
I should have prayed that before now. Never too late in tight races, though.
I wondered about one of the other prayers and found an English translation. It’s a prayer by Calvin.
Here is my own lightly edited version of that one for good measure:
Father, the depravity of our nature is so great that we cannot bear prosperity without some wantonness of the flesh immediately raging in us and without becoming arrogant against you. Grant that we may profit under the trials of the cross; and when you have blessed us, may we, with lowly hearts, renouncing our perverseness, submit ourselves to you, bearing your yoke submissively. And may we proceed in this obedience all our lives, and so contend against all temptations as never to glory in ourselves, and feel also convinced that all true and real glory is laid up for us in you, until we shall enjoy it in your celestial kingdom, through Christ our Lord. Amen.
