06 August 2011

Response attendees agree in prayer that they will be 'more Christ-like" to hurting world. An estimated 30,000 people gathered at Houston's Reliant Stadium for the event.
                             Photo By Patrick Butler/ResonateNews.comBy Patrick Butler | ResonateNews.com

HOUSTON — As the Response closed with the chorus, “I Exhalt Thee, O Lord,” the official tally of viewers and participants are in. Approximately 40,000 people attended the event in Houston and 80,000 unique Web live stream connections were made, event organizers said.

“That means that hundreds of thousands of people joined us in this historic day of prayer,” said Doug Stringer of Turning Point Ministries, and an event organizer. “We have received text messages from all over the world, saying “we believe that Jesus is being lifted up. This truly has been an historic day and I believe that something has transpired not only in the spiritual realm, but in the physical realm as we crossed our various barriers to come in the name of Jesus.”

Texas Gov. Rick Perry made a final appearance saying, “This is a day many people will be talking about for years to come,” he said to enthusiastic applause. “I pray that our willingness to stand in the public square to honor the God who made us, will inspire others to turn their hearts to God … that people will be strengthened by his love and forgiveness, that is the essential building blocks that strengthen this nation we love. As we go out, I hope you continue to pray nation leaders, our president … that God will pour out his wisdom upon them.”

Perry had a special prayer request, he said.

“Pray for our military families, especially for … the loved ones and warrior brothers of those special forces lost in Afghanistan yesterday. Lift them up in your prayers. God Bless you and  through  you may God continue  to bless this great nation we love.”

Stringer said, “Today may they (those who oppose The Response) be reminded, this has been about us and God. He went on to ask the gathering that "we reflect Christ-likeness even to those who oppose us. May we continue to pray and that the light shine so brightly that others drawn to him … that we hate nothing but sin, and fear no one but God, and hate no one and nothing but sin."

 

---