The inauguration of Donald Trump as the 47^th president of the United States is scheduled to take place today on the West Front of the United States Capitol.  The swearing in ceremony will be followed by the inaugural luncheon, a parade, and culminate with inaugural balls in the evening.  This is a monumental moment, even if it is not the candidate you voted for.  Today, for the 60^th time in our country’s history, we inaugurate a new president.

While the speeches are made and flags are flying, remember this is a time for prayer.  Join today in praying for our nation and our new president.  As Paul wrote to Timothy, “ Therefore I exhort . . . that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made . . . for kings and for all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life . . . for this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior.”  1 Timothy 2:1-3.

While times change, they are still so much the same.  Always there are troubles, challenges, wars, storms, sickness and discord among the people.  Always we have a desperate need for our strongest leader, our Almighty Father.  I am reminded of the hymn, “God Bless Our Native Land” by Charles T. Brooks, 1812-1883, and John S. Dwight, 1813-1893.  I hope you enjoy the rendition I have included today, performed in July 2020 during the Covid epidemic.   The text remains pertinent in every time and every age.

Together we seek out the unconditional love offered to us by our almighty and heavenly father.

“God bless our native land; firm may it ever stand
through storm and night.
When the wild tempests rave, Ruler of wind and wave,
do thou our country save by Thy great might.

So shall our prayers arise to God above the skies,”
on whom we wait.
Thou who art ever nigh, guarding with watchful eye,
to thee aloud we cry:  God save the state.”

Judy