This commentary and prayer was originally published on November 8, 2017. We offer it again as a way to honor our veterans.
As I travel around the Alabama-West Florida Conference, I meet those who are currently serving in the military and many veterans who have previously served our country, including some who are combat wounded. Rev. John Brooks, AWF Director of Multicultural Ministries, is one such veteran, who was severely wounded in Vietnam. John was told that he would never walk again and never use his left arm after losing his right arm. Today, Rev. John Brooks is a walking miracle. On Monday, November 11th, we recognize Veterans Day, and I encourage you to reach out and thank those who are serving in the military. Moreover, thank those veterans who have served to not only provide us the freedom we enjoy in the United States, but who have given humanitarian aid all across the world and right here at home.
Join me in praying this Veterans Day:
Lord, we are given the assurance in Psalm 23 that you are our Shepherd. You lead us beside the peaceful streams and renew our strength. Even when we walk through dark valleys and the shadow of death, we will not be afraid. Lord, you protect and comfort us. Even in the midst of the enemy, you prepare a feast for us. Your goodness and unfailing love pursues us all the days of our lives. The best is always yet to come because we will live in the house of the Lord forever, for those who live according to your purposes.
When we do not know what to pray for, the Holy Spirit prays for us. We join in prayer to give thanks for Veterans who have sacrificed so much for our freedom and the goodwill of other people. Bless those who serve and who have served, that they might experience the peace that comes from you, the peace that passes all our understanding.
Amen
Bishop David Graves
Alabama-West Florida Conference