THE BIG THINGS - NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

RESIDENT GATHER AT GREGG COUNTY COURT HOUSE

Today hundreds of area residents and distinguished guests gathered on the front lawn and steps of the Gregg County Court House to observe the National Day of Prayer (NDP).  The theme of the day was "A Mighty Fortress is Our God."  The event was the 60th annual observation and was organized by National Day of Prayer Task Force. 

The agenda began with a prayer for God's divine protection by the Honorary Chairman, Christian Author Joni Erickson.  There was a pledge of allegiance lead by the scouts of Troop 226 and then the national anthem sung by Deborah Gilbert. (And she sang very well indeed!)  The event coordinator, Buffy Dyess, gave a welcoming speech followed by introductions for the Pastors and Officials.  Pastors from the Longview Clergy Coalition lead the gathering in a series of prayers for the following:

Government

Police and Fire Departments

Pastors and Church Unity

Families and Homes

Youth and Schools

Mass Media

Racial Reconciliation

Armed Services

Revival in America

Unity in Our Community

Don Knoop of Pray Longview gave the closing remarks after which the crowd sang "God Bless America."

Granted that this is a "national" day of prayer one glaring omission to this list is to prayer for persecuted Christians worldwide, and their persecutors.  We are also commanded in scripture to pray for Peace in Jerusalem, another good subject.  Overall though, it was a through exercise and well worth the effort.  


If there was something that bothered me, it was the presence of ordained female ministers for which I find no support in the scriptures.

The weather was as perfect as anyone could want and the event was peaceful and orderly.  I felt the presence of God's Spirit and enjoyed participating.

Let's look and hope for great things to come!