I was asked to pray at our village’s Memorial Day service on May 26, 2014. Here are two prayers that I wrote for the occasion.
Invocation – Almighty and everlasting God,
Once again we gather to remember those who have died in our country’s battles. On this day we are reminded of the high cost of war. With awe, humility, pain, and pride, we invoke their memories. O God, we implore you to be with us in this time of remembering.
Help us to not make light of their deaths. Let us not forget the pain, suffering, and horror of war. Remind us once again the ultimate price many of our fellow citizens have paid in our nations wars. Ensure that we do not take their deaths lightly.
As the memories of their sacrifices touch our hearts, Empower us not to take for granted the freedoms we enjoy, keep the cost ever present in our minds. As we remember those who have died, give us the strength to work for peace. Help us to work for a future that the prophets envisioned, where swords will be turned into plowshares and war will not be taught any more. Give the leaders of our country wisdom as they make life and death decisions in using our military forces. Protect our soldiers all around the world. Let us not take their willingness to serve and die for our country lightly. May your blessing be on all those who seek to serve a cause higher then themselves.
We pray all this in Jesus’ name, Amen.
Benediction –
May we go forth with remembering those who have died defending our country. May their memory inspire us to serve a cause higher then ourselves. May we work for peace in this world. May the blessing of God: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, be with you all now and forever, Amen.
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