In Defense of the President

Last Thursday was the National Day of Prayer, an observance begun 47 years ago. Around the country groups gathered to pray for the nation, our leaders, communities, and citizens. Like his predecessors, President Obama signed the proclamation for the day but, in divergence from the Bush Administration, Obama did not attend any of the events, instead choosing to observe the day with private prayer. He has been criticized by some for failing to attend the official Washington function hosted by Shirley Dobson, wife of James Dobson and no fan of the President. And what did she say? “At this time in our country’s history, we would hope our president would recognize more fully the importance of prayer.” This is what drives me crazy about the Religious Right. Because Obama did not attend a function hosted by Dobson, he suddenly doesn’t recognize the importance of prayer? That’s ridiculous. And it makes religious people look petty. But then the kicker – Wendy Wright, president of Concerned Women for America: “For those of us who have our doubts about Obama’s faith, no, we did not expect him to have the service… But as president, he should put his own lack of faith aside and live up to the office.” His own “lack of faith”? Because he won’t attend a function where people admittedly doubt his faith? This judgmental, politically blinded attitude is essentially everything that is wrong with the marriage of the Religious Right and conservative politics. It’s just not very Christ-like. Disagree with the President on policy issues – that’s fine and appropriate and responsible. But to judge his personal faith?

I think it is fine that we have a National Day of Prayer, and I am always happy to attend an event. But, I support the President’s decision to observe the day privately and not to attend these public functions. Because then it does become a political function, no matter who the President is. Let the prayer ceremonies be about prayer, not what important person is attending. These should only be about One person anyway. And I’m sure He hears prayers well in a large group or in a private closet. He may even hear the closet prayer better.