Inaugural Invocation

During all the recent controversy about Obama asking Rick Warren to deliver the inaugural invocation, Quaker Dave came up with an alternate idea. He asked other bloggers to post their own invocations on this day.

So here is my prayer for our nation on this historic day.

Almighty God, who has given us our lives, our land, and all that we possess, help us to remember that you are Lord of all peoples. Help us to bear in mind that the United States, with its manifold blessings, is only one nation out of all the Earth. Remind us, O Lord, that from those to whom much has been given, much will be required. Bearing that in mind, on this day of transition, help us to turn to you and seek your wisdom.

O Lord our God, save us from the sins of violence, greed, hatred, pride, arrogance, and lust for power. Teach us instead to be a people of compassion, justice, mercy, equity, and generosity. Show us how to protect our many freedoms without impinging on the freedoms of others. Help us to respect the humanity of all your people and to work tirelessly for every human being to share equally in the rights and the liberties that we ourselves enjoy.

Most especially, we pray for President-Elect Obama and Vice-President-Elect Biden on this day. Grant them wisdom, honor, integrity, and strength. Help them to know and do your will. Guide them in the enormous task of leading this country during difficult times. Keep them in safety and good health. Help them to work to unify this country and to inspire us with their own examples. Fill them with the
love of truth and righteousness, and make them ever mindful of their calling to serve this people and not their own ambitions.

We commend our nation to your merciful care.

Amen.