Senator Chris Coons Shares His Approach to Praying for President Trump
In an era where political divides are often stark, Delaware Senator Chris Coons offers a refreshing perspective on bipartisanship and faith. Speaking at the New York Avenue Presbyterian Church in Washington, D.C., Coons shared his personal journey of praying for Republican President Donald Trump, whom he does not view as an adversary.
At an event titled “Living Out One’s Faith in Difficult Times: An Evening with Senator Chris Coons,” the senator recounted his experience at the 2017 National Prayer Breakfast. He extended a prayer to Trump, saying, “Mr. President, would you please stand with me? I want to pray for you.” Coons noted the mixed reactions he received, with some questioning his decision to pray for Trump. To them, he responded, “What part of pray for your enemies did you not understand? And he is not my enemy.”
Coons humorously acknowledged that his prayer life has flourished due to Trump, joking that he would tell the former president, “that he’s been very good for my prayer life.” Emphasizing the value of civility, Coons expressed his dedication to praying for both former and current presidents, underscoring that unity is crucial even amidst political differences.
The senator also highlighted the challenges of maintaining civility in today’s divisive political climate. Drawing comfort from Philippians 4:6-7, he shared the biblical passage that brings him peace: “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
Despite his criticism of certain Trump administration policies, which he described as “cruelty,” Coons emphasized the importance of collaboration and finding common ground. He proudly mentioned that Trump signed five of his bills into law, demonstrating the potential for bipartisan cooperation.
Coons has worked alongside fellow lawmakers, such as Republican Senator Lisa Murkowski, to secure funding for ALS research and treatments. He remarked, “What gives me hope in Congress is that we still do things like that. We still find a way to find each other to say ‘I may hate you … but you’ve got some good ideas and a bill that I’m willing to carry forward.’”
Concluding his remarks, Coons reflected on his identity as both a senator and a Christian, often wearing an American flag pin to signify his public service. However, he chooses to remove it during worship, stating, “I take it off to remind myself that as a Christian, my loyalty, my heart, my commitment belongs to Christ. A Christ of all peoples and all nations of all backgrounds.”
Coons, who holds a divinity degree from Yale and attends First & Central Presbyterian Church in Wilmington, Delaware, has frequently spoken about the influence of faith on his political work. In a podcast interview with Fox News’ Shannon Bream, Coons remarked, “The Gospel is neither Republican nor Democrat,” emphasizing its focus on aiding the poor, widows, orphans, and refugees.
This article was originally written by www.christianpost.com
