Given that today is President’s Day, thought it only fitting to find a hymn focusing on the nation. “God Bless Our Native Land” http://www.ccel.org/a/anonymous/luth_hymnal/tlh577.htm is based on Romans 13:1-7 and uses the familiar melody – “America.”

The words written by Charles Brooks and John Dwight, the two verses are a prayer for protection of the country, for a reminder of who truly rules. Paul’s words in the first lines of the 13th chapter were a reminder to those who were persecuted to stand strong and not revolt against the government despite its cruelty.

While we are fortunate to live in a country that does not torture its citizens to the extent that citizens in other countries face now, it is important to continue to pray for good, solid leadership, for guidance for those who must make challenging decisions that effect so many in our town, our county, our state, our nation.

May the leaders of our land continue to do what is right. May we continue to pray for them as well.