"Remind us, O Lord, that you do not exist to bless America...."

Christian author Max Lucado, a Texas pastor, gave the
benediction at the end of Monday night's session of the
Republican National Convention.

It's worth reprinting:

"O Lord, God of our fathers, You direct the affairs of all
nations. You made from one man every nation of mankind to
live on all the face of the earth. We echo the declaration
of Job: 'God makes nations great, and destroys them; He
enlarges nations, and guides them.' Please guide us.

"You are the supreme strength of the universe. We trace
every decision and blessing back to Your hand. Thank You
for this nation. And have mercy upon her.

"Please unite our citizens. Nurture the poor, abused, and
abandoned. Protect our children; keep our homeland free
from harm. Remind us, O Lord, that you do not exist to
bless America. We exist to bless you. Remind us of your
unquenchable, unconditional love.

"Affirm us when we seek Your will; forgive and correct us,
when we don't. Speak to us about the brevity of this life
and the beauty of the next. And, most of all, prepare our
souls for the moment we meet You face to face.

"We lay this election before you, and, in the end, Thy
will be done.

"By the source of mercy we pray. To You be the glory
forever and ever.

"Amen."

Source: Citizen Link, 9-1-04