Ross Wise is a friend of mine. He and wife Sharon live in the beautiful East Texas town of Gilmer. I know Ross because he’s a Kerrvert…and even more intimately than that, he’s a “Nasbillian” like me.

But, unlike me, Ross is a Baptist and a Republican. That’s why this prayer he’s written captured my attention. And I liked it so much, I thought that it worthy to pass along to you too.

Dear Father,

Thank you God for letting us live in a nation where we can choose our leaders. Thank you for a system of free elections where we can vote without fear of molestation by those who rule. Thank you for a system of government that is responsive to the wants and needs of the people. I ask you father to continue to bless this nation with the freedoms our fathers have fought and died for.

Father, please be with president elect Obama, and give him the wisdom, the patience, and the understanding to pursue the most challenging and important job in the world. Let him put away the shackles of partisan politics, and pursue what is best for the American people. Give him an understanding of the unique historic position he occupies in the history of our great nation. Let him be guided by the biblical principles of justice for the afflicted, compassion for the downtrodden, and protection for those who cannot protect themselves.

Father, please be with those who voted for Senator McCain, and let us support president elect Obama to the fullest extent that our consciences allow. We know there will be areas where we do not agree, but let us be civil and respectful in our differences of opinion.

Heal our country. Pull us together. Dissolve any rancor that might exist.

These things I humbly ask in the name of Jesus Christ,

Amen.