The Rev. Franklin Graham has issued a heartfelt appeal to Americans for a collective “time of prayer and repentance,” emphasizing the pressing troubles the nation faces amidst a tense political atmosphere. In a post shared on social media on Monday, Graham, who heads the Samaritan’s Purse and the Billy Graham Evangelistic Association, has called for this significant moment of prayer to occur on Wednesday at noon ET.
During his message, Graham remarked on the rising levels of hatred, violence, crime, and despair sweeping the nation, suggesting that these societal issues are symptomatic of a broader moral decline. He stated, “If you think our nation is in trouble now, just wait,” imploring individuals to turn back to God’s guidance amid “godless secularism.” He emphasized the need for seeking forgiveness and prayer as a means to regain divine favor and restore peace.
The context of Graham’s call comes in the wake of civil unrest related to protests against immigration law enforcement, notably following the tragic shooting of Renee Good by an ICE agent last week in Minneapolis. While the shooting has sparked heated debates about law enforcement protocols and the circumstances of the incident, Graham urged Americans to pray for leaders and to seek divine intervention in calming the nation’s tumultuous environment.
“There are many who would like to stir things up,” Graham warned, urging the public to pray that destructive plans would be thwarted. He called upon the church to act as a beacon of peace during these uncertain times and reiterated his invitation for nationwide prayer, stating that millions remembering their sins and seeking forgiveness could indeed make a difference.
Graham’s remarks also touched on the broader political landscape, where he criticized the motivations behind the protests, attributing them to what he described as the “radical socialist left.” He expressed concern over the potential consequences of such movements on American values, referencing statements made by protesters that he found alarming.
In the wake of a tragic loss, Graham’s message serves as a reminder of the importance of prayer and reflection in healing and uniting a divided nation. He concluded his message by stressing the need for compliance with law enforcement and the importance of resolving disputes through legal means.
As communities continue to grapple with grief and unrest, Graham’s call for collective introspection and prayer offers a hopeful path forward, encouraging individuals to come together in faith and commitment to peace.