It’s Memorial Day. A time to remember all those who’ve lost their lives in service to our country. As we celebrate a break with our families today, let us not forget why this day exists.
Let us also remember today, in a special way, all those who have lost their lives in this pandemic. Those who have died alone, separated from loved ones. And those who show up daily fighting for our freedom – whether that be right now in war or in a lab working to find a vaccine or in a hospital fighting for lives to see another day.
The following is a prayer found over at Xavier University’s Prayer Index. Pray with me as we begin this Monday:
Lord,
You who created us,
who sustain us,
who call us to live in peace,
hear our prayer this day.
Hear our prayer for all who have died,
whose hearts and hopes are known to you alone …
Hear our prayer for those who put the welfare of others
ahead of their own
and give us hearts as generous as theirs …
Hear our prayer for those who gave their lives
in the service of others,
and accept the gift of their sacrifice …
Help us to shape and make a world
where we will lay down the arms of war
and turn our swords into ploughshares
for a harvest of justice and peace …
Comfort those who grieve the loss of their loved ones
and let your healing be the hope in our hearts…
Hear our prayer this day
and in your mercy answer us
in the name of all that is holy.
The peace of God be with you.
(Austin Fleming)
Wishing your families peace, health, hope and healing this Memorial Day.
(This photo is a throwback to the first time they went fishing and when I used to dress them for things – today we wake up to more rain – yet again!)
