A Prayer for Veterans

[prisonchaplain]

Prayer to Honor Veterans

 

Preparatory comments: 

 

In the Old Testament book of Joshua (1:9) we read God’s charge to the people of Israel, who were about to face many battles, as they entered the Promised Land: 

 

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." 

 

And then, in the New Testament book of John (15:13), Jesus offers a bit of wisdom that ought to shine honor on every veteran. 

 

He said: Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one's friends.

 

Let us pray: 

 

LORD, the military personnel serving today, and those veterans we honor on this day, they have been—and are—strong and courageous.  They have loved, not only their friends, but their country—and even those our nation seeks to protect in far-away lands.

 

 

Because our veterans and military pledge and risk their lives—because they love so sacrificially—we honor them today.  They may not seek public accolades.  They may not even fully recognize just how much they gave and risked.  You do.  You see all. 

 

So, honor our veterans today:  First, by protecting our men and woman who continue to serve in dangerous places today. 

 

Then, by providing blessing to our veterans. 

Bring peace to their hearts and minds. 

Drive away all anxiety and distress. 

Provide for their families. 

Heal their bodies. 

And, would you plant within them a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction? 

 

Military service is never clean, neat and easy.  Pain, frustration, and uncertainty are abundant.  Heal all of that—and bestow upon our veterans honor—honor for all they risked, and for signing up to defend us when they did not have to.

 

GOD, honor our veterans today …  In Your most holy name, amen.

[Guest MormonGator]

I love this. Thank you to everyone who served!!!!!!!!

[AnnieCarvalho]

Yes, thank you all for your service.