Path you have created, inspiring them with the potency of your powerful presence. May they trust you in times of adversity and prosperity, knowing that they will reap a productive harvest if they persevere. Lord, keep them from underestimating the power of your great name, inspiring them never to forget that nothing is impossible with you. Give them the wisdom to solve the hard problems of our times and grace to live in harmony with one another. We pray in your strong name. Amen. The presiding officer please join me in reciting the pledge f allegiance to our flag. I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of america and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under god, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. The presiding officer the clerk will read a communication to the senate. The clerk washington, d. C. , may 10, 2016. To the senate under the provisions of rule 1, paragraph 3, of the standing rules of the senate, i hereby appoint the honorable rob portman