What would you do? That's right. What would you do? You're the pastor. The President of the United States shows up on Sunday morning. You are asked to pray for the president... in front of the congregation. What would you do? If you think this is imagination, oh no-siree-bob! David Platt, of the Southern Baptist Convention and Pastor of McLean Bible Church in Virginia dealt with this very scenario when President Trump showed up unannounced at their 1 PM Sunday afternoon worship gathering. What would you do? What would you pray?
Apparently, Platt received word that the President was 15 minutes away from the side of the platform between the completion of his prepared sermon and the leading of his congregation through a time of communion. Given only a few moments notice, David Platt is seen in the video recording holding a Bible in his right hand, with his left hand on the President's shoulder choosing his words very carefully as he prays for the most powerful man in the world. Undoubtedly, conflicting thoughts are racing through his mind as how to best handle the situation, lead his congregation well, and honor God in the process. What did he do? He turned to God's Word. What should you and I do when something difficult suddenly presents itself? Go to God's Word.
Specifically, he prayed this: "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, 6 who gave himself as a ransom for all, which is the testimony given at the proper time." 1 Timothy 2:1-6.
Pastor David recalls the event this way: "In that brief moment, I prayed specifically for an opportunity to speak the Gospel to him, and for faithfulness to pray the Gospel over him. After I prayed, the president walked off stage without comment, and we closed our gathering."
I'm so proud when God's people point the attention UPWARD rather than taking the spotlight only He deserves. Would you pray with me for Gospel seed that was sown on Sunday to bear fruit in the President's heart?
Pastor Milo
@milowilson
_____________________________________________
0 comments:
Post a Comment