In Washington, D.C. an old priest lay dying in the hospital. For years he had
faithfully served the people of the nation's capital and was well known
among the elected officials. He motioned for his nurse to come near.

"Yes, Father?" said the nurse.

"I would really like to see President Obama and Senator Reid before I die,"
whispered the priest.

"I'll see what I can do, Father," replied the nurse.

The nurse sent the request to the President and Congress and waited for a
response.

Soon the word arrived; President Obama and Harry Reid would be delighted to
visit the priest.

As they went to the hospital, Obama commented to Reid, "I don't know why the
old priest wants to see us, but it will certainly help our images.

Reid agreed that it was a good thing.

When they arrived at the priest's room, the priest took Obama's hand in his
right hand and Reid's hand in his left hand. There was silence and a look of
serenity on the old priest's face.

Finally President Obama spoke. "Father, of all the people you could have
chosen, why did you choose us to be with you as you near the end?

The old priest slowly replied, "I have always tried to pattern my life after
our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ."

"Amen", said Obama. "Amen", said Reid.

The old priest continued, "Jesus died between two lying thieves; I would like to do the same."