Congratulations to Senator Barak Obama

Out here in Hawaii the polls are still open for another hour and a half. But the verdict is in with the predicted results in Pennsylvania and Ohio. I must soon join John McCain and every other American in offering congratulations to Senator Barak Obama on his being elected as the next President of the United States.

Along with many others I consider Mr. Obama to be a little bit "green behind the ears" (Obama's own phrase, by the way!) . . . perhaps one of the most green and least tested Presidents in our history. May God give him the wisdom to act wisely and well on our behalf. May God surround him with wise and worthy counsellors. May God grant our nation and the world peace and reconciliation during his tenure. May God bless America so that we might be a blessing to the world.

America! America! God shed His grace on thee,
And crown thy good with brotherhood
From sea to shining sea!

America! America! God mend thine ev'ry flaw,
Confirm thy soul in self-control,
Thy liberty in law!

America! America! May God thy gold refine
Till all success be nobleness,
And ev'ry gain divine!