Yesterday was a day to remember. Undoubtedly all of us were glued to our television sets or computer screens as Barack Obama became the 44th President of the United States. It was an occasion like none other. The last estimate I read on the cost of the inauguration was $150 million which was three times the amount spent on Bush’s inauguration. Ever wonder what all that money is spent on? Has the thought crossed your mind that this amount seems awfully high considering that our economy is in a serious recession? Just some thoughts.

No matter how you feel about Obama or his policies, you cannot deny the magnitude and achievement of his ascendency. Racial barriers are being crushed and a dark period in the history of this nation is being rewritten. It is a moment that will be discussed for years long past our children’s generation.

For what it is worth, I like Obama and the way he carries himself. I think he displays a genuine character with a sense of humility. However, I have real concerns about some of his policies. As one of his first acts, Obama plans “to lift a rule that prevents federal money from going to international family planning groups that counsel women on abortion or perform the procedure.” I’m not convinced by his healthcare ideas either. Time will tell how these campaign statements will play out in real policies.

Wherever we land on the Obama meter, we should all feel compelled to pray for our new president and his success. We should pray that each policy he drafts would be informed by the Scriptures. We should pray that God give him insight and discernment to lead our country through difficult times.

(HT: Denny Burk)