the tindog coffeehouse

Today is the National Day of Prayer, an annual event dating back to 1952, and this year’s observance will be much different than those of the past 8 years.  That’s because Barack Obama is now in the White House.

Prior to George W. Bush, most presidents honored the day with proclamations or other low-key events.  But President Bush went further during his administration, inviting Christian and Jewish leaders to the White House for a more formal observance.  President Obama, however, is not continuing his predecessor’s tradition, instead opting for a proclamation and nothing more.

Does that matter?

Surely this nation needs strong Christian leadership in the White House and Congress.  But should we as Christians be depending on the president to be our spiritual leader?  Even with the strongest of Christians in office, I would say no.

As I wrote shortly after the election in November:

But Barack Obama is not the Messiah, and as Christians we understand that real hope doesn’t come from a politician.  Real change — eternal change — doesn’t come from a political party or a presidential election.  It can only come from the grace of God through the death and resurrection of His Son.

And so regardless of the outcome of this election or any other, our mission is the same as it has been for 2000 years: to share the good news of “hope” and “change” that can only be found through Jesus Christ.

And part of that mission obviously includes prayer, not just on the first Thursday of May, but every day.

Whether our elected officials join with us or not.

Previously:
The election is meaningless