On The Steps Of The State Capitol

It was a bright and sunny day in Baton Rouge today. I and two pastor friends along with many others from around out state attended the Pastor's Prayer Breakfast for incoming governor Bobby Jindal. We heard a powerful challenge by a Lutheran pastor who told of our nation's tolerance of abortion and our guilt in perpetuating that sin. We listened as others told of how our nation's educational system was founded on Christ, the scriptures and prayer. Today, that system is becoming more secularized. I was challenged to speak and stand for our nation's godly heritage.

We also spent time interceding for our new governor, his staff, newly elected public officials and other national leaders. The prayers were as heartfelt as the pleas that drove us to our knees. I believe our governor is committed to Christ and to allowing godliness to reign in our state government. I will continue to pray that this be so, just as Romans Chapter 13 says I must.

A couple of hours later, on the steps of the capitol building, the spirit was as bright and sunny as the morning sky. The air was crisp and cool; the crowd optimistic and expectant. We watched eagerly as new officials took the oath of office. One humorous moment came when the judge administering the oath of office to the state treasurer charged him to faithfully execute the office of "insurance commissioner." The incoming insurance commissioner had just finished taking his oath of office. After a strained silence and a few chuckles, the judge realized his mistake and corrected himself. One official to an office, please.

Finally, governor elect Jindal took his oath of office and spoke. I have long admired his ability to speak well, passionately, and detailed without any notes whatsoever. This morning, he was true to form. He spoke of a new day in state government, a day of ethics reform, a day of opportunity for business, and an invitation to those who grew up and were educated in Louisiana who left to work in other states to return and help rebuild the state. I have long cast a cynical eye toward politicians who seem to want to use religion, Christianity, or the church to achieve their political goals, but today I felt a genuine spirit of humility and integrity. I am willing to give those who claim Christian values and beliefs an opportunity to live them out in public office. I may be fooled again, but at least I gave our governor and his administration a chance to do what he says must be done.

To top it all off, as a "Deacon" sang "God Bless America," rising to a crescendo with his final note, he was drowned out by four F-15 fighter jets which screamed overhead in tight formation. It was a proud day to be an American, a Louisianian, and a human being.

Hope, optimism, and patriotism reigned on the steps of the Louisiana state capitol today. Long may they wave!