America and Complex Simple Gifts

Here’s an excerpt from the 2009 inaugural speech given by our president, Barack Obama: “America. In the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words. With hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come. Let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations. Thank you. God bless you. And God bless the United States of America." 1 Timothy 2:1-3 "First of all, then, I urge that entreaties and prayers, petitions and thanksgivings, be made on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in authority, so that we may lead a tranquil and quiet life in all godliness and dignity. This is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior..." Romans 13:1 "Every person is to be in subjection to the governing authorities For there is no authority except from God, and those which exist are established by God." Itzhak Perlman, Yo Yo Ma, Gabriela Montero and Anthony McGill performing "Tis a gift to be simple" 'Tis a gift to be simple 'Tis a gift to be free 'Tis a gift to come down Where we ought to be And when we find ourselves In that place just right We will be in the valley Of Love and delight. When the true simplicity Is gained To bow and to bend We shall not be ashamed To turn and to turn it will Be our delight 'Till by turning and turning we Come 'round right. Where America is and where we ought to be does not seem so simple. The complexity is mind boggling, but safely in God's hands.