A Prayer for the End of a Legislative Session - Invocation for the CO State House

 

Our God and God of All creation:

The Psalmist writes:

I lift up my eyes to the mountains – from there wil my help come.” (Psalm 121)

In this sacred chamber, the tasks of governance seem both insignificant and indispensable at the same time.  When we try to assess our actions in light of the challenges that face us, our attempts to create change can  seem insignificant. And yet, our striving to fight against the temptation to succumb to  a cynicism bred from hubris is a defining  characteristic of the divinity You have implanted within us all.

As this legislative session draws to a close, instead of looking at the myriad of task in front of us, let us set our heights a little higher. We look back at the months that have passed with mixed emotions.  The hours upon hours of negotiation have been both fruitful and frustrating.  How many hopes for meaningful change were left discarded on the cutting floors and backroom deals of the political process?  How many well-intentioned initiatives were defeated in the name of expedience and influence?

But there were also moments when our highest ideals were on display for all to see.  When politics were set aside for the sake of the common good; When men and women of character came together in the name of our shared values of democracy and compassion; when both sides of the aisle were united in determination to celebrate the potential for making a difference…it was, is and always will be these acts of humanity that give us hope in the face of the challenges we face.

Thank you, God for the ability to shine a light on the goodness of humankind – even when we it is hard to see.  Thank You for the ability to rise above the petty and the partizan to make a difference.  Thank you for these leaders who share their passion for representing their communities. Thank you for the clerks, officers, advisors, and all who labor unseen to keep our government running smoothly. May the recess that awaits you all bring rest, renewal and a re-ignited hope for all that is good.

We pray for those around the world whose lives are uprooted by natural disaster, perceived injustice, disease, and warfare.  We pray for our great state of Colorado- may we always lift our eyes to the mountains to find Your presence.

AMEN