Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:6-7
As you may know, I've been spending a lot of time in Washington, D. C. over the last 12 months. It was a year ago that I led worship and sang in the first weekly worship services to be held in the United States Capitol in 144 years. These services known Capitol Worship are for members of Congress, spouses, staff and others who work on Capitol Hill. I believe this has been a divine appointment for me to be there, to lead in worship and serve those in such strategic positions of leadership. In the past year, I have made 17 trips to the Capitol and I am hoping to make eight more trips in the Fall if I have the support.
During the day before the worship service, I walk the halls meeting and praying with Senators, members of Congress and those who work there. As I walk the halls of the House and Senate offices I am amazed by the number of people in the halls trying to get into even a bit of time pleading for their cause or initiative. It is not unusual to see a group of five or six, or even 30 people wearing pins or badges or carrying placards promoting their cause. Sometimes they are even chanting or singing their slogans in an attempt to make their voice heard. There are almost always protestors on the steps of the Supreme Court attempting to bring attention to their cause.
Several weeks ago I walked into a Congressional office and was face to face with my friend, the Congressman. I said, "I'm here to pray for you." He responded, "Do it fast before I kill someone." He was kidding but it was obvious that he was dealing with some significant issues. I said a brief prayer and was on my way. I wasn't there to ask anything of him but to be an encouragement to him. When I returned the following week, he said, "It worked. I didn't kill anyone." That might seem inconsequential to some, but our elected officials are under intense pressure and they need God's people to be praying.
As I see folks walking the halls trying to get something from their elected officials, I often think of the verse from Philippians chapter four. These people are approaching those who have power in our nation, but we can approach God Almighty, the ruler of the universe and make our requests known. There is no middle man and we can go directly to the top with our needs and our requests. We are not to be anxious and we are promised God's peace.
Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16
Steve