Laus Deo

Lee Harder from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Bulverde, Texas sharing a few important thoughts prior to our mid-term elections to remind us who’s really in charge. 
Have you ever been in the Washington Monument?  It’s quite an experience. One detail that is seldom mentioned is that in Washington, D.C. there can  never be a building of greater height than the Washington Monument.  With all the uproar about removing the Ten Commandments and the drive to eradicate God from all things because some may be offended, this is worth a moment or two of your time.   I was not aware of this amazing historical information, but I sure am grateful I know now.
On the aluminum cap, atop the Washington Monument in Washington, D.C., are displayed two words: Laus Deo.  No one can see these words.  In fact, most visitors to the monument are totally unaware they are even there and for that matter, probably couldn't care less.   Once you know Laus Deo's history, you will want to share this with everyone you know. 
These words have been there for many years; they are 555 feet, 5.125 inches high, perched atop the monument, facing skyward to the Father of our nation, overlooking the 69 square miles which comprise the District of Columbia, capital of the United States of America.
 Laus Deo! Two seemingly insignificant, unnoticed words.   Out of sight and, one might think, out of mind, but very meaningfully placed at the highest point over what is the most powerful city in the most successful nation in the world.
So, what do those two words, in Latin, composed of just four syllables and   only seven letters, possibly mean? Very simply, they say 'Praise be to God!'
Though construction of this giant obelisk began in 1848, when James Polk was President of the United States, it was not until 1888 that the monument was inaugurated and opened to the public.   It took twenty-five years to finally cap the memorial with a tribute to the Father of our nation, Laus Deo,  'Praise be to God!'  
From atop this magnificent granite and marble structure, visitors may take in the beautiful panoramic view of the city with its division into four major    segments.   From that vantage point, one can also easily see the original plan of the designer, Pierre Charles L'Enfant … a perfect cross imposed upon the landscape, with the White House to the north, The Jefferson Memorial is to the south, the Capitol to the east and the Lincoln Memorial to the west.
A cross you ask?  Why a cross?  What about separation of church and state? Yes, a cross; separation of church and state was NOT, is NOT, in the Constitution.   Allow me to go on.
How interesting and, no doubt, intended to carry a profound meaning for those who bother to notice. 
When the cornerstone of the Washington Monument was laid on July 4th, 1848 deposited within it were many items including the Holy Bible presented by the Bible Society.  Praise be to God!   Such was the discipline, the moral  direction, and the spiritual mood given by the founder and first President of our unique democracy 'One Nation, Under God.'
I am awed by George Washington's prayer for America...Have you ever read it or heard it?   Well, now is your unique opportunity, allow me!
"Almighty God; We make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in Thy holy protection; that Thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government; and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States at large.
And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love MERCY, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility, and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without a humble imitation of whose example in these things we can never hope to be a happy nation. 
Grant our supplication, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen."
Laus Deo!
My thanks to some friends who shared this with me so I can share it with you.
And with an election of great significance looming before us, those are my thoughts.
God bless.  Laus Deo!
Pastor Lee