Some years ago, I met President Obama while he was visiting Seattle. In my mind, I had envisioned the opportunity to share some heartfelt convictions that would dramatically impact President Obama and alter the trajectory of his leadership, presidency, and country. Go big or go home, right?
Unfortunately, the chance for a long conversation wasn’t to be. If I’d had that opportunity, I was hoping to talk policies, justice, human dignity, womb to tomb, family, marriage, compare pictures of our kids, and challenge him to a one-on-one basketball game.
However, the meeting was a few minutes in a small group. When folks were introduced at this smaller gathering, they all had “important” titles. I was simply introduced as “Eugene Cho,” and I’m certain many were asking, “Who is this and why is he here?” In fact, President Obama himself had a puzzled look as he said, “Hello, Eugene.” So, I introduced myself to him and explained that I was a pastor in Seattle and was also involved with humanitarian work through One Day’s Wages. We chit-chatted briefly about stuff, but there is something I remember specifically, and I doubt I’ll ever forget this portion of our conversation—even and especially if I disagree with him on certain policies.
I shared with President Obama that I occasionally but regularly prayed for him, and he responded, “Thank you, Pastor Eugene. I really appreciate that. Can you also please pray for my wife and children? Pray for their protection.”
His demeanor changed. Perhaps I overanalyzed all the nonverbal cues, but then again, I’m a pastor and after (then) twenty-one years of doing ministry, you develop a “pastoral sense.” I genuinely sensed his gratitude for prayer and his request for prayer for his family.
Even now, I vividly remember that short conversation…
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