ALPHARETTA, Ga. (BP)–North American Mission Board President Robert E. Reccord is calling Southern Baptists to use the upcoming National Day of Reconciliation at the U.S. Capitol in Washington as a day of prayer in every SBC church.
“This day of prayer, fasting and repentance can literally change the face of our great nation,” Reccord wrote in an electronic message sent to thousands of SBC pastors, associations, state conventions and agencies. “I am calling every Southern Baptist church to join [Congress] and set aside Dec. 4th as a day of prayer for our nation.”
Both the United States Senate and House of Representatives approved resolutions authorizing a National Day of Reconciliation to be observed with an event in the Capitol Rotunda on that date. Majority Whip Tom DeLay, R.-Texas, who sponsored the House resolution, said it sends the right message.
“It’s never been more important for the leaders of our nation to come together and turn back to God. It’s all made clear in 2 Chronicles 7:14,” DeLay said. “By coming together in the Capitol to pray, humble themselves before God and to seek repentance, America’s leaders can guide the nation in the right direction.”
Reccord encouraged Southern Baptists to strongly support this effort. “Our congressional leaders have recognized our need to seek God’s face as a nation. Their desire to set aside Dec. 4th as a National Day of Reconciliation is a reminder of our need to humble ourselves before God.” Reccord also encouraged Southern Baptists to contact their congressional representatives to let them know they are being prayed for on that day.
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A 40-day intercessory prayer guide produced by NAMB, titled “Praying for the President,” may be helpful during this call for prayer. The booklet is available in packs of 10 at LifeWay Christian Stores, online at www.Lifeway.com, or by calling 1-800-448-8032.
