Inauguration Day - M. Laycock

Like millions of others around the world I watched the historic inauguration of Barak Obama on television. It was an impressive sight, seeing the millions of people who crammed the streets of Washington, most of them nowhere near where Mr. Obama stood to take the oath of office. Most of them knew before they arrived that they would not get anywhere near him. But still they were there. Over and over again you heard that word, "historic." Millions, it appeared, just wanted to be part of that moment.

I was impressed, too, at Mr. Obama's speech. His vision for his country is both noble and bold, considering the state of his nation. I tried to imagine what it would be like to be an American, standing in that crowd listening, and I could understand why the faces of many who listened were glistening with tears. Mr. Obama gives them hope, something desperately needed in the United States and around the world today.

But, as stirring as the speech and all the fanfare was, I felt a sadness as I watched from my living room. It seemed there was something missing in it all. When the speech was over I led my regular women's Bible study group as we looked at God's word and studied what the name, Adonai, means. It was an enlightening study, pondering what that word 'Lord' means to us, particularly when the author made mention of Nehemiah.

That ancient leader took on a task no less daunting than becoming the president of a great country. In the face of much opposition and powerful enemies he was charged with rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem one hundred years after they had been destroyed. I imagine Nehemiah gave quite a stirring speech as he stood in the rubble and told the Hebrew people what they were to do. Part of his speech was recorded for us, and one line echoed down through history and off the page as I read it today - "Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome ..."

Mr. Obama's speech was eloquent as he charged the American people with their task of beginning to rebuild their country's strength and honour. But Mr. Obama neglected to mention the fact that nothing can happen without the enabling of the God who is in control of history.

I pray we, as well as Mr. Obama and all the leaders of all the nations, will remember God, for he is Adonai, The Lord, who is great and awesome, and it is He, only He, who can change the hearts of men and make them good.

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Marcia Laycock is the winner of The Best New Canadian Christian Author Award for her novel, One Smooth Stone. Her devotional column, The Spur, goes out to thousands world-wide each week. Visit Marcia's website - http://www.vinemarc.om/