Tony Perkins Washington Update
Tomorrow marks the National Day of Prayer (NPD) which was first proclaimed by President Dwight Eisenhower in 1952. Since that time Presidents have routinely proclaimed the first Thursday of May as a National Day of Prayer (NDP). It has been reported that the Obama White House will issue an official NDP proclamation but the text has yet to be released.
A presidential spokesman did make it clear that there would be no NDP event at the White House. That of course is a break with the tradition of the Bush administration which hosted an annual NDP event at the White House.
Should we be surprised? Concerned? No and yes. While there is a long history of Presidents praying and calling the nation to prayer (dating all the way back to George Washington) a de-emphasis on prayer in this administration should not come as a surprise. What can we expect of an administration whose policies cheapen human life increase dependence upon government and threaten religious freedoms?
But just because there is no official White House event shouldnt lessen tomorrows significance. To the contrary! First this should help us realize we need to pray even harder because leaders who do not seek Gods leading are hampered in their ability to lead others. Secondly we must recognize that Gods call for people to humble themselves and pray (2 Chron 7:14) is not a call aimed at political leaders and those with great power and influence but rather its a call to the Church.
Tomorrow Ill be traveling to speak at multiple NDP events and I want to encourage each of you to participate in a NDP gathering near you. Even if you cant attend an event on Thursday please make it a priority to pray for the Church for the country and for our nations leaders.
