Sen. Tanya Storer

Two weeks ago, an invitation from the White House to deliver the invocation at the Oct. 5 Trump rally was confirmed. It was a humbling and deeply appreciated opportunity to lead thousands of Nebraskans in prayer and, most importantly, to bring glory and honor to God. Those few moments were dedicated to giving thanks for many blessings, asking for divine guidance, and reflecting on the values that unite Americans. There was no way to anticipate how deeply those words would resonate with so many people.

What is most vivid is the moment the prayer began.

The crowd had been loud and full of energy, and then, in an instant, it grew quiet. In that moment, the noise and excitement gave way to a sense of reverence that was truly moving. Hearing a collective “Amen” served as a simple yet powerful reminder of the impact of prayer and how it can bring people together.

Faith is a cornerstone of my daily life, not something reserved for special occasions. Prayers are regularly asked for guidance in showing love, patience, kindness, and compassion toward others, and for words and actions to reflect the Truth and Grace of God. As a sinner saved by grace, perfection is never attained, and human nature still gets in the way, but that daily reminder helps shape how others are treated, especially during disagreements.

A wooden cross stands at the top of a hill on the ranch as a constant reminder that we are merely stewards of the land and livestock entrusted to us, a principle that applies equally to the freedoms we all have as Americans. During the invocation, gratitude was expressed for those freedoms, along with recognition for the people who contribute so much to our country, our communities and to Nebraska: farmers and ranchers working the land, public servants and service members who have sacrificed for the nation.

Honor was given to mothers and the sanctity of life and the shared responsibility to safeguard the freedoms entrusted to us all. Prayers were offered that people might stop viewing one another as enemies simply over differing viewpoints, remembering that the real battle is not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and powers. The ultimate war is for our hearts and souls.

Everyone is created by God with a deeper yearning that only He can fill, but too often we look to people or government for that fulfillment. Misplaced hope will always lead to disappointment.

In the days following that invocation, calls, messages, and requests for copies have come in from people of all ages, including younger generations.

Those words have meant a great deal, though I do not view the response as a reflection of anything extraordinary done by one individual. Rather, it is a strong reminder that God can and does use ordinary people to touch hearts and bring people together based on shared experiences and values.

The same principles of humility, stewardship, and respect for others are ones I strive to carry into public service. We will not always agree, nor should we have to, but differences of opinion should never diminish our willingness to listen, show respect, or treat one another with dignity. As your State Senator, I remain committed to representing the people of District 43, listening to your experiences, concerns, and ideas, and carrying them forward into the work of the Legislature. Please note that my email address has changed to tanya.storer@leg.ne.gov Respectfully, Senator Tanya Storer