Somewhere at this hour a terrorist remains free; one who took aim with national leaders. Even if it turns out the devices were only meant to fear rather than kill, this incident reminds us of Paul’s requirement that we pray for those in high positions.

The Bible doesn’t have an asterisk. No editor removed the phrase, “except those of a political party we don’t like.” Jesus, of course, said “Love your enemies.” Abraham Lincoln spoke of the practical benefit. “Do I not destroy my enemies when I make them my friends?”

Lincoln was killed by a man too blinded by hate to see that with the Civil War over Lincoln would become the South’s best friend.

Inspiration sometimes requires perspiration. To pray for leaders who may spit on the values you hold most dear, who may actively seek to harm you, who call for you to be chased out of public places, who call you names, is no easy task.

But it is a mandate, and a likely fruitful one. After all, Scripture teaches that God can turn the heart of men. (Proverbs 21:1)

Moreover, those who know Christ have a vital role in healing our nation’s rift, to “seek the peace of the city.” (Jeremiah 29:7) All authority comes from God. Don’t we owe it to God to have the spiritual back of those He’s put in positions of power?

If we do not intercede against the slings and arrows and package bombs of the enemy, who will? If we do not love, who is going to?

I said in a story about the string of mailbombs, “consider what will be in the next package you send a political opponents’ way.” Be that package a letter, email, text or conversation. I’ll put it another way today: “Lord, may all my packages be in the shape of the Cross.”

And Lord, in this hour of tension and danger, I pray your protection on those in high positions. And pray the apprehension of those responsible for yesterday’s acts and the suppression of those considering revenge. May no harm fall those serving the public and may healing arise across the nation.