Father,
Remind us that liberty never travels without its companion sacrifice, and that sacrifice never travels without love. When we are tempted to forget the physical sacrifice America’s soldiers have made on our behalf, remind us that it was their blood that bought this nation its freedom. In the same way, remind us that it was the sacrifice of your blood that bought our spiritual freedom when your own son paid the ultimate price for our redemption…
And this you did because you loved us.
Lord, America’s soldiers have become some of our greatest teachers. They teach us the significance of duty, honor, and sacrifice. They show us how to persevere in the face of extreme trial. We ask that you heal the hearts of our soldiers. Fill them with the assurance of your presence in their hours of fear, doubt, or even despair. Provide them with hope when they feel hopeless and peace when their spirits are in turmoil.
Father, this nation was founded on the work and character of many high-caliber men and women you selected to lead us. We ask that you again bless us with gifted leaders for our nation, our state, and our city. Grant us wisdom and discernment as we participate in the election process in the coming months. May our minds and hearts be attuned to your will for us in this hour.
When President Reagan said farewell to the nation he had served for eight years in January of 1989, he affirmed John Winthrop’s prophetic call that America was to become the shining city on a hill that would serve as a beacon of hope to the nations of the world.
May we stop and remember those who desperately need freedom and consider what sacrifices we must make to procure it for them. May we remember those who hurtle through the darkness and step in with the Good News that the Light of the World has come to light their way home to true freedom found in Jesus Christ.
In the precious name of Jesus who desires to lead us all to freedom, Amen.
“If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” (2 Chronicles 7:14)