Remembering Those Who Served on Memorial Day

Two weeks ago, I was preparing to give a weekend retreat in San Diego. As I tracked the wildfires that were shutting down traffic along my route past Camp Pendleton, I pondered all of the men and women who have so bravely served in that place and in so many others around the world. As I motored past Pendleton, I offered a private prayer of thanks that I’m renewing today. For our soldiers, for their loved ones, and for those currently far away from home fighting to protect our freedom, we remember today and we hold you all close in prayer!

God of power and mercy,
you destroy war and put down earthly pride.
Banish violence from our midst and wipe away our tears,
that we may all deserve to be called your sons
and daughters.
Keep in your mercy those men and women
who have died in the cause of freedom
and bring them safely
into your kingdom of justice and peace.
We ask this though Jesus Christ our Lord.
R/. Amen