Public Opinion, Politics and Prayer

Caught your attention with that title, didn't I?  Probably not a surprise, but this has always been one of my favorite quotes: 

"Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has." -Margaret Mead

I was recently having a chat with one of my sisters about the state of politics, the deficit, and  government today.  How it can be frustrating. I kept asking if she voted recently.  We talked campaign finance reform.  We talked "women's issues".  We talked Tea Party sweep and moral vs personal vs religion in government.  It was a really good conversation - one that we have never had before, or at least in a very long time.  She made good points about citizens being like shareholders in a company and also some about those who hold the decision makers ears have so much power (I agreed again).

Then two days later during the Adult Forum at church, the visiting pastor taught us simple ways to pray.  Ironic or not, this was on his handout:

For Those Who Influence Public Opinion

Almighty God, you proclaim your truth in every age by many voices: 

Direct, in our time, those who speak where many listen and write what many read; that they may do their part in making the heart of this people wise, its mind sound, and its will righteous: to the honor of Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.    

Book of Common Prayer, P. 827

I like it.  

PS - kind of different or odd kind of post from me?  Read here.