LBW #401, “Before You, Lord, We Bow”
Devotion
The nation you have blest
May well your love declare,
From foes and fears at rest,
Protected by your care. For this bright day, for this fair land –
Gifts of your hand – our thanks and praise.
The words to this hymn were written by Francis Scott Key to commemorate the fourth of July in 1832.
It was a bright time to be an American. Religious revival swept the land. The common man and ballot box seemed, with the election of Andrew Jackson, to have the power to right all wrongs. It was also a time of forced resettlement of native peoples in the southeast, the Trail of Tears and a shaky balance of power between slave and free states.
Injustices and civil war have been a part of our democracy since this song was first sung. But knowing that God provides for orderly life and many daily needs through our government, we pray that our leaders be wise and honest, that the helpless receive care and that our votes contribute to this. In our democracy, our prayers and votes are part of our Christian vocation.
Prayer
Merciful Lord, you provide for our many needs through our government and the resources of this land. Guide our leaders and guide us as citizens so that there is justice and care for all in need. Amen.