I was very happy to read that Rick Warren was chosen by Barack Obama to deliver the inaugural invocation on January 20th. The article focused on what reactions the prayer will have if Warren "offers up the prayer in the name of Jesus." Apparently, Franklin Graham and others who have prayed at past inaugurations have drawn criticism for "invoking Christ."
The article says, "Warren did not answer directly when asked whether he would dedicate his prayer to Jesus. In a statement Tuesday to the Associated Press, Warren would say only that, 'I'm a Christian pastor so I will pray the only kind of prayer I know how to pray. Prayers are not to be sermons, speeches, position statements nor political posturing. They are humble, personal appeals to God.'"
I love his answer because I think it basically assures Christians (have you ever heard him pray?!) that the Lord will be given authority in the prayer. But I think it's interesting and heartbreaking that there are people ready to lash out in negativity if the name of Jesus is mentioned.
I see it like Franklin Graham, who had this to say: "For a Christian, especially for an evangelical pastor, the Bible teaches us that we are to pray in the name of Jesus Christ. How can a minister pray any other way? If you don't want someone to pray in Jesus' name, don't invite an evangelical minister."
Amen.
2 comments:
Excellent post Kathy!! I agree with Franklin Graham. Although with all the controvery, I can kinda see why Rick Warren stated it as he did. I am TOTALLY looking forward to tomorrow..... TIVO is set and waiting!!! (I just hope America is patient with Barack - it's gonna take some time to turn things around.)
Hi Kathy - Thanks for hopping over to say hi! Its always good to "meet" a fellow Illinoian - especially a fellow Illini fan!
Great post - and since I read this after the fact - He really had a great prayer didn't he?
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