Do our leaders pray for us?

THE EDITOR: Reading through the scriptures recently, I could not help but recognise the many mentions being made of leaders who were actually genuinely concerned about the welfare of their people, and in some cases praying for them. For example The King of Nineveh in the book of Jonah, King David in (1 Chronicles Ch 29). To us Christian we firmly believe that Jesus, in addition to praying and fighting for us, actually died, not only for His followers, but also for all of us. There are many more scriptural examples. These are just a few. In modern times I am aware of my praying Pope. He is mostly depicted in his favourite praying posture. Mahatma Gandhi was known to fast and pray and, of course, fight against what he believed was unfair treatment of his Indian brothers and sisters. He too died for their cause as well. Having reflected on this aspect of praying leaders, I could not help but pause and wonder. Do our present leaders pray for us? Or, do they only seek our prayers and all the other favours that they need from us in order for them to remain in power? Presidents, prime ministers, labour leaders, managers, supervisors and others, do you spend some time reflecting on your role as a leader of people who themselves need your special prayers and supplication? We may never know.

As the head of WASA Security I prayed for my people. There were tough times. There were lies and compromises against me, but I prayed for my detractors. My secretary and some office staff would, from time to time, pray for our guard force. We prayed for all employees. We prayed for management etc. I personally prayed for wisdom and a continued spirit of humility in me. I prayed against the spirit of anger and revenge. These aspects still remain a mainstay in my daily prayers. We are aware of God’s promise to deal with leaders who persecute and lead their followers astray. In this time of ongoing calamity and confusion, would it not be nice to have more praying “people at the top”? To those of you who are already doing it, I salute you. God bless you.

DOYLE  HICKS Sr
Orlando, Florida