The Interview
The year was 1949 and I was looking forward to Christmas. Late on Christmas Eve, I had the chance to understand life from a grown-up perspective. All the children were in bed and from my bedroom I watched my Mother make several trips into the living room. Just before midnight she realized that I was still awake. Pausing in the bedroom doorway, she motioned for me to come with her. I walked into the warm glow of the Christmas tree lights. She talked to me as a confidante, and I knew that I would never be the same. In the quiet, she included me in “grown-up” family secrets and explained their financial situation. For the past several weeks, the church members had cut their tithes and offerings drastically, and no one gave the week of Christmas, which meant the Pastor didn’t receive a check. Fortunately, Mother had bought Christmas presents for the three younger children a few months back and I received the two books I had request—but I would have to wait for the watch and new clothes. The next morning I sat on the couch rejoining with my sister and brothers as they opened their gifts. I learned the joy of Christmas—it is a time for giving. Momentarily I was shocked when I heard my voice requesting an interview with the Most Holy God. Now I see it as a form of intercessory prayer. God, in His mercy allowed me to proceed.
“Father-God, the church prayed, prayer vigils were held, people gathered to worship you. I know that you never fail even one word of your promise, but I am puzzled about where we are as the Church. We are more divided than ever! Many are in a state of confusion, and confusion is not from you. According to the scriptures as I understand them, you have not failed; I need to hear from you. Where did we miss it; where do we go from here? Teach me to pray. Lord, I believe; help my unbelief.”
His answer astonished me:
-Many focused on abortion and same-sex marriage, opening the door to anger, resentment and even bitterness toward people that I have come to save.
-Many placed their trust in a man and a political system. Ignoring Ephesians 6:12, they positioned themselves against one another.
-There are seven things I hate listed in Proverbs 6:16-19. I came to earth to save people who are guilty of committing these sins.
-“My commission to the church is clear; it is simple. Go and make disciples of all nations!
Another question, Lord. Why are you asking me to pray for the man, Barak Obama?
-I have multitudes who are praying for President Obama, but few who are praying for the man. (Really, Lord, multitudes?)
-I knew him before the foundation of the world, and my plans for him are from the beginning.
-I ordained him to be a leader and gave him gifts to be used for my Kingdom and the good of mankind.
-Satan desires to pervert the gifts
Lord, you taught me to pray the Scriptures.
-Can we apply 2 Chronicles 7:14 to our nation in the year 2013?
-Can we stand in the gap and build up the hedge as in Ezekiel 22:30?
Remember: Hebrews 8:5-7; Luke 10:19; James 5:14; 1 John 5:14-15, Ephesians 1:18-22; 2:5-10; 6:10-12.
Lord, teach me to pray for the man, Mr. Obama, who is the President of the United States of America.