Evening with the Senator

Today’s blog post is by Patience Robbins

I recently had the wonderful opportunity to spend an evening with Senator Tim Kaine (VA) at the Shalem office. It was a time of deep inspiration and sharing of light and hope. Because of a personal friendship with a member of the Shalem Board, Senator Kaine joined 25 of us for a prayerful conversation about spirituality and how that has influenced his life and especially his work.

The Senator was humble, open and very honest. He was willing to share very personally about his spiritual practices and his mission in life. He shared his call to be a reconciler and that he has been living into this mission of reconciliation since he was a young man. He asked us to pray for him that he can live more fully into this call, particularly at this time of division and conflict in our country. His integrity filled the room, like a bright light, and it seemed that because the group was receptive, the light was reflected back and then the group got brighter and brighter and full of loving energy. I am still inspired as I recall it.

I feel deeply committed to praying for Senator Kaine and for others in the Senate who are open to being their authentic and best self on behalf of our country and world. I also took to heart his encouragement to use my voice and vote for what I believe and want for our country. He urged us to remind our legislators to work across the aisle, to bridge the divide even though it doesn’t get the media attention.

I invite you to join me in praying for our legislators. I am reminded of a saying from St. Seraphim of Sarov: “Acquire the Spirit of Peace and a thousand souls around you will be saved.” May we pray that our leaders acquire the Spirit of Peace, especially in these difficult times.