Heavenly Father,

Who promised to never leave your children’s side,

we give thanks to You for the soldiers who have made it home safely, and we are grateful for those you have ushered into Heaven straight from the battlefields.

Bless our soldiers, and hold them safely in the palm of Your hand.

Bless our soldiers’ families and friends; help them to always be a source of joy and strength for our military.

We ask for healing, Lord. Of wounds, we can and cannot see,

Of memories that may never be resolved.

And of the spiritual relationship with You that sometimes feels so broken.

Let Your grace pour down upon those who have served in the battlefield, who often return to a continuous battle of transition to civilian life.

Lift up those who are feeling lost, those who are feeling unappreciated, and those who cannot accept the magnitude of their sacrifice.

Guide us, as Your Church, to minister to the sons and daughters of war, not just on special occasions but every day, seeking new ways to support them in gratitude for their ultimate sacrifice.

May we become soldiers of relief for them, responding with patience and understanding and providing assistance where needed.

Help us to become good listeners, a safe haven for our soldiers to speak of their experiences, regardless of the horror they may have seen. For in speaking, begins healing.

Refresh us, Lord. Fill us with Your Holy Spirit so that Your love

may overflow in all of us, bringing peace, joy, and wholeness to us, those who have served, and those who continue to serve our blessed nation.

We thank them for their sacrifice. And we thank You for the ultimate sacrifice in Your Son, Our Lord Jesus Christ.

Amen