Rulers and Citizens

I was taking a quick look through the Summer 2013 Higher Things Magazine this evening and found an insightful statement by Rev. William M. Cwirla...

When I served on jury duty, the judge asked me if I, as a Christian minister, could serve in good conscience on a jury. I told him that we considered the court system of our country a gift and instrument of God, and that our congregation prayed weekly for judges and other officials. He replied, “Thank you. We need it.” And they do need our prayers, much more than they need our snarkiness and criticism. It’s our priestly duty and privilege to pray for all in authority. If we don’t pray for our leaders, who will?

In his article titled "Rulers and Citizens," Cwirla concludes with this prayer...

Gracious Father in heaven, we thank you for the gift of civil order. Bless all who make, administer, enforce, and judge our laws that we may lead quiet and peaceful lives in all godliness until we rise to attain our citizenship in your eternal kingdom; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

Cwirla is the pastor of Holy Trinity Lutheran Church in Hacienda Heights, California.