The Stage is Set...

This coming week we are going to experience something that America has never experienced before. On January 20, 2009 we will welcome into office a man who, shall we say, can maintain his tan better than any previous president. Senator Obama becomes President Barack Obama. A man of color will step into the Oval Office to serve our country.

People around the world are saying that this is a historic moment. The eyes of all are focused on a nation that has prided itself on its' civil rights. Now we have the chance to see if it was lip service or a true transformation from the days when slaves were a common commodity. Now we will see if our nation is ready to follow President Obama's lead.

What bothers me is the fact that we even notice the color of his skin. Are we trying to convince ourselves that we are non-discriminatory in our attitudes toward someone we might never socialize with in our daily activities? Do we show support because he is black or because he shares our ideals? Are we willing to challenge him because we don't agree with him or do we keep our mouths shut because we don't want to appear racist? How much does his "diversity" affect our objectivity?

What should be our role with this new leader? Paul, in his first letter to Timothy said, "Therefore I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence." (I Timothy 2:1,2) Whether we agree with the majority that voted this president into his new role or not, we have a responsibility to support him with our prayers, and give thanks that he is our new leader.

Personally, I'm not too worried about his tenure in office. Because I believe that he is exactly where he is supposed to be! Romans 13 tells me that my responsibility lies in supporting those who are in positions of authority. I am to be subject to those who are in power, because "... there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God." (verse 1) Verse 4 says, "For he is God's minister to you for good. But if you do evil, be afraid; for he does not bear the sword in vain." That means that with the authority that God has given him there also comes a responsibility to carry out God's direction. How he does that is between him and God.

I feel I am so blessed to be living at this time of the world's history! The pieces of the final chapter of this earth's journey are all falling into place. The stage is set for an amazing ride. What is coming in the future may surprise us, but what will never shock me is the fact that no matter what happens, I know that God is guiding each step of the way. Not only guiding, but traveling this path with me.

Are you ready to walk into the future with God by your side?

God bless you abundantly!