Perry’s “Response” Avoids Political Trouble
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A day of prayer and fasting in Houston’s Reliant stadium has come and gone. The event initiated by Governor Rick Perry brought plenty of people but not the expected controversy. That makes it a nice launching pad for a possible Presidential bid.
Some of the event organizers had been criticized for anti-gay and anti-Muslim remarks but those concepts didn’t make it to the stage Saturday. Speaker after speaker prayed for forgiveness and help. Luis Cataldo with the International House of Prayer in Kansas City addressed the crowd.
“We’ve responded today because of one name,” Cataldo shouted to a cheering crowd. “We’re gathered in this stadium to bring blessings and honor and glory to Jesus. No other name. No other name!”
Governor Rick Perry received an equally rousing response. Although definitely the other star of the day, the Governor did not make his presidential aspirations the center of his time on stage. He didn’t take to the podium until 90 minutes into the event.
“In these difficult times Father, we pray for our President,” Perry said. “That you would impart your wisdom up on him – that you would guard his family.”
Bob Wandmacher drove to Houston from Cedar Park. He was inspired by Mr. Perry’s call for fasting and prayer.
“It’s a character that is often, I think, needed in the country and in the world,” Wandmacher said. “He would be a good candidate for president, should he decide to run.”
Charis Johnson from Dallas said the day was about asking for help for the country.
“The way our country’s been going, we deserve bad leaders. We deserve an economic downfall. We’ve turned away from Him,” Charis said. “But I’m hoping that he’ll hear our cries of repentance today and our hope of prayer that he will save us.”
As Charis put it, if governor Perry loves the Lord then it’s him she’ll choose for president.
bphilpott@kut.org
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