History Changed

Today history was made.

We have a new President of the United States — the 44th actually. Not just any President, but our first African American President.

Leadership has changed, and America enters into a new era — an era certain to come with challenges, tragedies, growth, transformation, and an enduring spirit of hope.

Regardless of our political position, beliefs, desires, expectations, or achievements, history was made today. What a wonderful time to celebrate. We are a part of something that will forever mark change in our country and lives.

Now it is time to unite behind a new leader. How can we begin to do that as Christians? First I believe it begins with prayer. We need to be in prayer for the Obamas and the Bidens. They have an enormous responsibility to lead this country through change — out of difficult times.

The responsibility of leadership can be both taxing and stressful. Why? Because when you "lead" people you are leading them from one place to another place, and people (us humans) don't like change. Bill Hybels describes the role of a leader better than any other way I have heard. He says, "Good leadership is disappointing people at an acceptable rate." When you lead, someone is always going to be disappointed or mad at you. I know. I am the lead pastor.

There are a lot of people who desire to lead but can't deal with people being frustrated with them. They want to try and please everyone (something that is impossible when it comes to leadership). The result is they find themselves ultimately exploding, compromising their morals, or pointing the finger at others as the problem for their lack of effectiveness. You can't make everyone happy and lead through change. Just ask Jesus...

But in order to lead as Christians, we first have to be willing to follow. Jesus desires to lead us through change in our lives. Will we following Him with no agenda? That is what humility looks like on the ground — following Jesus with no agenda or strings attached. Not easy... but worth it.

As Christians, during this time of difficulty in our country, it is time to unite together and lead by following Christ. Will you join me in praying for the Obamas and the Bidens for the work they are called to do in the days and years ahead. They have entered into one of the most difficult leadership roles that exists, during one of the most difficult times our country has experienced.

Will you pray with me?

"Most Holy God, we bow before you and thank you for the many blessings you have given us. Forgive us for our sins and for not seeking, reaching, and serving as you have called us to do. Open our hearts to the touch of your transforming Hand, and enable us by the power of the Holy Spirit to step out in faith and walk toward your heart. Change us God, from the inside out. On this special day we ask your blessings upon the new leaders of our country — those who are called to serve and to make decisions that ultimately effect lives in many ways. Especially, we pray, for our new President, Barack Obama, and our new Vice President, Joe Biden, and their families. Give them strength, courage, wisdom, and grace, that they may lead us in the direction You desire. Unite us all, regardless of race, religion, age, socioeconomic status, gender, sexual orientation, political views, and theological position, so that we may be a part of the change you desire to make in our lives, in our country, and in our churches. We pray for peace and blessing, that we may be a blessing to others in need. We humbly ask this in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen."

Peace.