For now we see in a mirror dimly, but then face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I have been fully known. – 1 Corinthians 13:12
On this day in 1957, U.S. Senator Strom Thurmond of South Carolina began the longest filibuster by a single Senator. The speech, which lasted 24 hours and 18 minutes, was an attempt to prevent the Senate from voting on the Civil Rights Act of 1957. Senator Thurmond argued that the law, which would make segregation illegal throughout the country, was in violation of states’ rights to pass segregation laws. The measure ended up passing despite his efforts. Thurmond continued to serve in the Senate until 2003 when he died at the age of 100. The filibuster remains in effect at the Senate, where a vote of at least 60 members is required to end debate and move to a vote. Ask the Lord to be with federal legislators today so that freedom, justice, and equality continue to be upheld and protected. Pray for God to lead you in being a messenger of His inclusive love and salvation through Christ Jesus.
As the Lord leads, pray with us…
- For members of the Senate as they debate and discuss legislation prior to voting on it.
- For Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, and President Pro Tempore Patty Murray as they lead the upper chamber.
