These updates often focus on my time on Capitol Hill, but my life and ministry are filled with a wide variety of opportunities.

Last week I traveled to Arkansas to sing at the funeral of Terri Womack, the wife of Congressman Steve Womack, who passed away after a brief battle with cancer. It was an honor to be there for Congressman Womack and his family, along with several members of Congress, including Leader Steve Scalise. Moments like that remind me that beyond the titles and positions, these men and women carry very personal burdens.

Later in the week, I had the privilege of singing the National Anthem at the Grand Canyon University men’s basketball game. I was deeply impressed with the GCU campus and its students. Their energy, engagement, and openness were refreshing, and I thoroughly enjoyed my time interacting with them.

This week I arrived in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday afternoon to streets and sidewalks still blanketed in snow. The city had yet to clear many of the thoroughfares, creating a picturesque—but slippery—welcome back.

House votes had concluded earlier in the day, which meant many representatives were in their offices. Both Republicans and Democrats welcomed me in for brief conversations and prayer. Those quiet, unscheduled moments are often where meaningful ministry happens.

On Wednesday morning, I encountered a gathering of women in a room in the Rayburn Building. A congressional spouse explained that they were wives of foreign leaders in Washington for the National Prayer Breakfast. Each year, leaders from around the world gather under the name of Jesus for this significant event. It was a reminder of how the Gospel quietly intersects with global leadership.

I also had a joyful reunion. A young woman I had known as a child, Leigh Phillips Sloan, was in Washington for business and educational initiatives. It had been more than 35 years since I had seen her. Her parents were deeply involved in the music ministry at First Baptist Church of Van Nuys. It was a delight to escort her through the Capitol and share lunch together.

On the legislative front, there is progress. The government has advanced 11 or 12 appropriations bills—a significant step toward what is called “regular order.” In simple terms, it means Congress is attempting to move away from temporary funding measures and address spending in a more structured way. However, the final appropriations bill involves funding for the Department of Homeland Security—an issue that is, of course, highly contentious.

Next week, the House is expected to vote again on the SAVE Act (Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act). This version includes a voter ID requirement, which has sparked strong reactions. Supporters argue it protects election integrity; opponents argue it risks voter suppression. The bill is expected to pass in the House, but the Senate could prove far more dramatic, possibly even involving a rarely used “standing filibuster.” At that point, clear lines will be drawn regarding where senators stand on election security. If the final appropriations bill is not passed and signed, a limited government shutdown could once again become reality. I am not a legislative expert, but this is my understanding of what lies ahead.

Walking the halls, I continue to see posters of Charlie Kirk outside offices. His impact on the Hill remains and his loss is still felt especially among young staffers.

As I delivered one of my notes in the Rayburn Building, I heard someone call my name down the hallway. It was the deputy chief of staff to a committee chairman. This member had attended Terri Womack’s funeral and wanted to tell me how much my presence and singing had meant to her boss. Investments of time and simple acts of obedience often open doors for deeper ministry.

Wednesday evening, I had dinner with three young men in their 30s whom I have come to know well. After serving on the Hill and in the White House, one now works in the private sector, while the other two serve as Special Assistants to the President. I value our time together. They offer a unique perspective on what is happening behind the scenes. One of their questions for me centered on the spiritual awakening we are seeing among young people and why it may be happening.

Our dinners are filled with laughter and honest conversation about life in Washington. I would not describe these young men as “on fire” for Jesus, though each has a religious upbringing. My concern is that they are flying close to the flame—where power, ambition, and influence can easily distort priorities and convictions.

As we concluded our meal, I told each of them that I loved them and reminded them that at some point, each of them must decide what to do with Jesus and the cross. Please pray for these young men.

With the House schedule changed and final votes completed Wednesday afternoon, many members headed home early—even missing the National Prayer Breakfast which was Thursday morning. One member on my flight home expressed disappointment that the House did not remain in session to continue its work, yet he was grateful for a brief time at home before flying back across the country next week.

I will return to Capitol Hill in a few weeks. In the meantime, several singing engagements will keep me busy.

I covet your prayers.

Steve