Shade Tree Wisdom 1/21/09

The historic and momentous day is now history. While in Washington the inauguration took place, behind the scenes, at the White house, one family moved out, and another moved in, in several hours, many trucks, and lots of people involved. One can only imaging the planning that took, and the expertise, and care, of these moves. And in the afternoon, the new president and vice president waved goodbye to former president and Laura Bush as they depart Washington for their new homes and private lives.

Many made reference to the orderly passing of power. And the reports are largely positive and hopeful. I need to put in this proviso, however, the people who are led and governed are also the same people who often are among the discontented, the disillusioned, the dissenters, the angry, the people who are often called “fool” by the Scriptures, who “say there in their heart. is no God.” Psalm 53,1. The Psalm goes on to describe such people in depth when he comments, “1." They are corrupt, they have committed abominable deeds; There is no one who does good.”. That is a fact that leaderships needs to deal with. One source for wisdom is the Bible. Abraham Lincoln one time was being visited by his best friend, Joshua Speed, who found Lincoln reading his Bible. Speed made some skeptical comment, and Lincoln placed his hand on Speed’s shoulder and said, “You are wrong, Speed. Take all of this Book upon reason that you can, and the balance on faith, and you will live and die a better, happier, man.”

President Obama made several Scriptural references as Lincoln often did. For us, citizens and God’s Children Baptism, there remains always this duty set by St. Paul,
1 First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people,
2 for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way.
3 This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior,
4 who desires all people to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth.
5 For there is one God, and there is one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” 1 Tim. 2, 1-5.

For always, “The fervent, effectual prayer of a righteous man availeth much”. Then the Lord will bless this country. May He so Bless and keep us in Him.

GPD 1/21/09