DEVOTION / Remember those who serve

Pause for Reflection

On Monday, we observe Memorial Day: a day of national remembrance of the sacrifices Americans have made to safeguard our country’s freedoms. We pause our stories about our ministry to urge a moment for prayer.

Memorial Day Prayer

Gracious Father in heaven,

Today, we remember and give thanks for those who have served our country—we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice so we might live in peace and safety. Lord, we give you thanks that you provide individuals who are dedicated to protecting and defending our nation.

As Christians, our hearts and minds can’t help but think about our Savior who gave himself as the ultimate sacrifice—the atoning sacrifice—for sin. We can’t help but think about Jesus, who gave his life so we might have new life—so we might be protected from the spiritual forces of evil in this world.

Today, we give you our utmost thanks for those who have sacrificed for us. We thank you for the sacrifice of your Son, which has brought us life, salvation, and forgiveness of sins. Triune God, the one and only God, we give you thanks for those who serve our country and have sacrificed so that we might have peace and safety here on earth.

Father in heaven, bring your comforting Word to the wounded. Be with those families today that are mourning the loss of a loved one who gave their life for their country. Renew them and strengthen them with your eternal peace, hope, and safety. Amen.