For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD.  Plans to prosper you, and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.   Jeremiah 29:11.
 
Today we celebrate our President not only as the leader of a nation, but as a child of God.  As he has told the story of his life; his family of origin; being raised by his grandmother; and his educational pursuits, there is no doubt that God had plans for this young man.  He is an inspiration to many, and an example of what perseverance, hard work, dedication, and determination can accomplish.

At 49, Mr. Obama serves as the President of the United States of America.  The odds were insurmountable; the mere notion of the endeavor – unimaginable.  Nevertheless, God knew the plans that He had for Barack Obama.  By some accounts his presidency would be considered ineffective.  There are some who continue to try and blame him for the economic condition, the Housing Crash, not only Iraq and Afghanistan, but all of the conflicts in which we are currently engaged.  They blame him for unemployment, and they’re even blaming him for the effects of the BP disaster for which there should have been regulatory oversight in the first place.

Despite all of this, God knew the plan that he had for Barack Obama.  So, Happy Birthday, Mr. President—despite the naysayers and haters; despite the ones who would find fault with you even if you made everything alright today.  God bless you and your family.  God bless America. 

Peace & Love, 

Pastor M