Memorial Day Prayer

by Tracy McNeal

Wars are being fought today in Afghanistan. Burundi, Chechnya, Colombia, Congo, India and Pakistan (over Kashmir), Iraq, Israel-Palestine, Kosovo, Lebanon, Macedonia, Philippines, Sri Lanka, Sudan and Uganda. As the people of the United States honor those who have died in the nation's service this Memorial Day, let us pray/or peace for all peoples and nations of the world.

Almighty God.

In whom we live, love, and have our being, We take time today to uplift the heavy hearts Of those for whom Memorial Day is more than a mere diversion. But is instead, a painful time of reflection. lamentation and enduring bereavement. This day we remember with compassion your children who have lost their lives to war; Incline us to honor their memory.

Dear Lord, With a sincere pledge to seek peace and nonviolent solutions to world conflict. We pray for the safety of those entering military service, And succor for the many returning from combat with wounded bodies, or minds sickened by the sight and sounds of war. Our prayers also extend, Great Comforter. To those who still wait and pray day by anxious day for that precious moment of reunion with a distant family member, friend, or loved one. And to others - whose reunion has been sorrowfully delayed until that heavenly homecoming with Christ in the fullness of time –

We offer the gentle assurance of your promise to all believers.

“Blessed are those who mourn: for they shall be comforted”:

Amen.