Of all the traditions in the House, the one I most appreciate is our custom of starting each session by honoring God and our nation. By saying a prayer and reciting the pledge of allegiance, we have a moment to reflect reverently on the foundation of our freedoms and liberties. Consequently, I was honored to be asked to deliver the opening prayer on Valentine’s Day. I would like to share the text with you:
“Thank You, God, for letting me be born in this great country, where anyone can worship any way they choose! Thank You, God, for loving us and we love You but You first loved us before the foundation of the world! You died on the cross so our sins can be forgiven, so we can have the gift of eternal life! Today is about love: Husbands, love your wife, even as Christ also loved the church and gave Himself for it. You say in the Bible whoever finds a good wife finds a good thing. “Who can find a virtuous woman? For her price is far above rubies.” And thank You, God, for my ruby, my wife Dianne Billington. God, thank You for the opportunity to serve the people in my district and the great State of Missouri and for all the friends I have here in this great capitol. In God’s word, He said if anyone lacks wisdom, “let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” I truly need wisdom, God, to make some hard decisions every day for the people of Missouri. Please grant me Your wisdom. And at any point should we disagree with our fellow representatives, may we treat each other with kindness and respect. May we do all things to glorify Thy name! May God bless the people of Missouri and our great country! We pray in Jesus’ name, and the House said, ‘Amen.’”
My wife was in Jefferson City and I asked her to join me in the chamber for the prayer. Although she knew she was going to be introduced, I had a surprise waiting. Unbeknownst to her, I secured a dozen roses and had a friend present them to her on the House floor. She was quite shocked and delighted!
This week, I again had the chance to welcome boy scouts to our beautiful capital. Members of Troop 4166, led by Scoutmaster Bob Summers, spent a day touring the city. It was a privilege to furnish them a pizza lunch and to pray over the food. Todd Richardson took them to the House floor where they had a mock session.
They debated the question of whether Missouri should give residents free lollipops. They discussed issues such as cost, taxation and health impact. They had fun and, in the process, learned a lot about the legislative process. In speaking with them, I learned they supported one of my priorities, requiring a photo ID to vote. I would also like to recognize Blane Ray, a 4166 member who recently achieved the prestigious rank of Eagle Scout. They are great kids and I enjoyed having them at the capitol.
I also had the opportunity to speak with Senator Blunt this week, who was in town to accept an award. Previously we have spoken about his goal of finishing the Highway 67 project. I would like to thank him for his lifetime of service, especially his attention to our military, veterans, and infrastructure needs in Missouri.
May God bless and keep you and our great nation.
Hardy Billington represents District 152, which includes parts of Butler and Dunklin counties.