Watch yourselves lest your hearts be weighted down with dissipation and drunkenness and cares of this life. – Luke 21:34
President John F. Kennedy ordered a naval “quarantine” that encircled Cuba on this day in 1962 during the Cuban Missile Crisis. On October 16, Air Force spy planes had confirmed with photographic evidence that Soviet Russia had stationed ballistic missile facilities approximately 90 miles from Florida. This nuclear weaponry being well within range of much of the U.S., President Kennedy quickly gathered advisors, carefully considering how to address the situation. The president was advised to label the encircling navy ships as a “quarantine” rather than a “blockade” to avoid a legal act of war against Russia. This action led to negotiations and de-escalation, maintaining the status quo of the decades-long Cold War. As you consider the tensions and conflicts between nations in the world today, remember that Jesus is the Prince of Peace and the Almighty God (Isaiah 9:6).
As the Lord leads, pray with us…
- For the president’s advisors today to seek the Lord for direction as they provide recommendations.
- For federal judges to be discerning as they hear challenges to law based on constitutionality.
