Editor, Times-Union: Did you know that the movie “Courageous” was shown on Capitol Hill? A girl named Sara sent this encouraging email:
“I wanted to share some good news from Capitol Hill. As you know, I lead a ladies Bible study in the Senate. One of my girls invited us to a private screening of the movie ‘Courageous’ here at the Capitol, sponsored by the Congressional Prayer Caucus. This screening was open to members of Congress, staff and U.S. Capitol Police and their families.
“It’s unusual to be granted permission to show a movie when it’s currently in theaters.
“About a year ago a friend asked me if I was aware of the Congressional Prayer Caucus (a group of 100 members of Congress who meet in a room just off the House floor to pray once a week for upcoming votes). Not only is her dad a U.S. congressman from Virginia, but he also chairs the Congressional Prayer Caucus.
“The CPC sponsored the screening of ‘Courageous’ and it was paid for out of the personal funds of 10 members of Congress (no taxpayer money involved).
“My cynical self expected a handful of folks showing up – along with some group of ‘protesters.’ I was stunned when I arrived in Jefferson Auditorium in the Library of Congress. It was packed. Had to be 300-350 people. The Capitol Hill Police chief was there, and I spotted one USCP officer who brought his wife and all 10 of his children (who were more well-behaved than a lot of adults I know).
“From my spot I counted about 35-40 members of Congress, including one senator. Now hear this: I was later told that 90 members of Congress had RSVPd, and many stood in the back (to leave early for previous commitments).
“As we watched the film, I was even more shocked to hear the Gospel of Christ clearly proclaimed (with no apologies). One member sitting in front of me cried through the entire movie.
“At the close there was an immediate standing ovation from the audience. No protesting. Then, to my delight, the writer of ‘Courageous’ and the lead actor were introduced (they were in the audience the entire time). Another standing ovation for them. I counted three standing O’s. Then I leaned over to my friend, Hannah, and said, ‘Pinch me. Am I in the U.S. Capitol, or am I at church?’
“The chief of staff for Congressman Forbes told me I couldn’t believe how many hours of prayer were involved and how much members of Congress personally donated to make it happen.
“Well, I’ll never forget that visit to Capitol Hill. There was no doubt that God was there. Now my prayers for our country will have a stronger element of faith and hope than ever. How about you?”
Well, Jodie and I get lots of emails from lots of places, but this has to be one of the most encouraging ones yet.
