[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 153 (2007), Part 23]
[Senate]
[Page 31526]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

                                 prayer

  The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, offered the following prayer:
  Let us pray.
  Eternal Lord God, at a time when people expect much from their 
leaders, give these public servants the wisdom to do the work of 
legislation, administration, and justice for the common good. When 
criticism comes from those who expect miracles and look for weakness, 
give to the Members of the Senate, their families, and staffs the grace 
of patience and love. Help them to be compassionate and forgiving 
toward the critics who would tear down and destroy. Give them courage 
to live above hostility and to be faithful to their tasks when 
circumstances are discouraging and negative. Lord, brace them in Your 
strength against the enervating effects of frustration and futility as 
You infuse them with confidence in Your providential power. Bless them, 
Lord, with love, laughter, and life. We offer this prayer in the spirit 
of Him who came to set us free. Amen.

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