Yesterday, I shared in worship a prayer I wrote for Memorial Day. It was suggested that I share it more publicly, so I thought I’d share it here. If you are a ministry leader, feel free to share it in your worship settings in the future.

Memorial Day is a day to remember those who didn’t make it home from serving the United States of America. For those who were willing to add their names to this list, thank you.

Christ our King,

On this Memorial Day weekend, we lay before you all of the emotions that such a day can bring.

We lament that we live in a world where militaries are necessary and wars occur. Where hatred and anger and vengeance still rule.

We grieve the lives of women and men who died in service. In the silence of our hearts, we lift up the names of those we know.

We weep with family and friends who live on without their loved one. We ask that you would surround them with the care they need.

We are grateful for those who chose to risk their life for the lives of others. Jesus, you said, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

We anticipate a day when “there will be no more death or mourning or crying or pain.” Lord Jesus, come quickly. Prince of Peace, come quickly.

And we thank you, Jesus, that though these men and women died for our freedom as a nation, only One died for ultimate, lasting freedom. Jesus, you are the ultimate Sacrifice, who died but was raised to life. All honor and glory is yours, Jesus, our resurrected King.

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