Beginning November 29th I attended a three day meeting on “the Hill” called “Congressional Clergy Town Hall”–an opportunity for 20 of the most committed Christians in Congress to speak to us regarding what is now happening in Washington after the historic elections of November 8.
What was slated as a town hall developed into much more, I believe. From the “after hours” tour of the United States Capitol, to the amazing service last evening in Capitol room H 137, the entire three days had the breath of God on it. Most memorable for me was the Tuesday evening prayer and praise time in the Senate chamber and the same last night in the Capitol Rotunda. To hear prayers being offered up “with strong crying” in both locations was astounding. Then, to follow those intense times of supplication with unrestrained strains of “God Bless America” was beyond stirring.
This was the first of many future pastor/ministry leader/legislator events in Washington, DC in the days ahead. The 14 pastors/committed believers who made the trip with me were moved, challenged, and forever changed. NEVER have I seen congressional leaders so enthused at what God has done/is doing! For the last eight years, a dark cloud has hovered over Washington–a darkness that could be felt. But, these last three days, I sensed a totally different spirit. Truly “enthuse”/enthusiastic (en=in, Theos=God–literally meaning “God within”) is the fitting term(s) to describe what I saw and sensed.
Congressman Louie Gohmert, Senator Jim Inhoffe, Congresswoman Marsha Blackburn, Senator Ted Cruz, Senate Chaplain Barry Black, and others, were among the many to whom we were able to listen and with whom we had occasion to interact. Though Chaplain Barry Black is always spot on, my favorite was Texas Congressman Louie Gohmert. In all candor, I think he’s missed his calling, for he didn’t speak, he PREACHED, and powerfully! I love his favorite expression–“To hide behind the sovereignty of God, using it as an excuse to do nothing, is like leaning on a shovel and expecting a hole to appear.” No, we need to trust God, but also ACT.
Capping off the three days, was last evening’s stellar worship service in the Capitol. To hear shouts of praise and Spirit-inspired singing IN THE CAPITOL was, well, over the top! For the first time, it was my delight to speak briefly to a gathering of approximately 100 legislators, pastors, ministry leaders, and committed followers of Christ.
As I reflect, all I can utter are the words of Mordacai to Esther–“For such a time as this!” Stay tuned for ongoing updates on all that God is doing and doors He is opening through our “HOPE To The Hill” ministry.
One final comment. Senate Chaplain Dr. Barry Black evidently concurs with my assessment–that a revival is on the way. His added thought is that the revival will commence in the halls of Congress. If what I saw over the last three days is any indication, he may well be right! Now is NOT the time for any kind of retreat. Rather let us ADVANCE in repentance, earnest prayer, determined obedience and enthusiastic expectation of another Great Awakening in our land.
Dave Kistler
President, HOPE Ministries International/HOPE To The Hill
President, North Carolina Pastors Network (NCPN)
Co-host, Stand In The Gap Radio
What is the purpose of the billboard? If you create an environment of us against them you foster the ability of the adversary to point out your faults which are many, both historically and to days in Christian doctrine. While archaic doctrine of both religions show a barbarian use of God to further political agenda of the hierarchy in place and woe to those who do not conform. While some faiths use physical means others use mental means to an end and they all seem to be power driven equating membership numbers as power. Most operate in the fashion of good old boys clubs, so I’m not impressed with organized religion these days about as impressed with our politicians the same.