A broken and contrite heart, O God, You will not despise. – Psalm 51:17
On this day in 2002, President George W. Bush gave his first State of the Union address. Speaking before the 107th Congress and a number of civilian and military guests, President Bush moved to rally Americans as they faced a recession and the devastating aftermath of the September 11 attacks. He encouraged the nation regarding what had been accomplished in the recovery of New York. He coined the term “axis of evil” as he referred to Iran, Iraq, and North Korea, declaring a “Global War on Terrorism.” He also outlined the need to increase homeland security, saying he would “do everything possible to protect our citizens and strengthen our nation against the ongoing threat of another attack.” The Department of Homeland Security was established as a result. As you pray today, give thanks that the nation has averted further attacks.
As the Lord leads, pray with us…
- For Secretary Mayorkas and Homeland Security officials as they assess the threats from hostile nations and actors.
- For the commissioner of Customs and Border Protection and the chief of U.S. Border Patrol as agents seek to vet those entering the country.
