For Those that Serve

Jesus said that there is no greater gift than to lay down ones life for a friend.  Imagine laying down your life for someone you have never met, for someone who has opposing views, for those who stand against all you stand for?  There is a saying that there are no atheists in foxhole. However, that isn't solely because when faced with the terror of impending death, so many seak God and pray for deliverance. To be in a foxhole voluntarily, a solider is living the greatest teachings of Christ. Love your neighbor as yourself and serve without seeking to be served.  Everyday thousands of Americans willingly and proudly don the uniform that not only brings them honor but makes them lay down their lives for neighbors, friends, family, strangers, countrymen.

It is not only in death that their lives are offered, but in the countless holidays spent in enemy territory, the evenings without bedtime stories, and weekends without rest, the endless hours of giving all they have for the sake of giving not receiving. These men and women offer their home life, vacations, hobby time, family gatherings, holidays, and worldly comforts so that we may live in peace and freedom.

We must also remember the families who serve, those on the home front, raising children, running homes, sacrificing time with those they love most so that we can have an active military. Their sacrifices are no less painful, no less important.

On this Veteran's Day, my family and I wish to extend a heartfelt and prayerful thank you in appreciation for all our military and their families contribute to make this country great. You are serving with all you have, May God richly bless your offerings.

A Prayer, For Those in the Military

Almighty God 

We stand before you in supplication, 

Asking Your Divine mercy and protection, 

To envelop with Your invincible armor, 

Our loved ones in all branches of the service. 

Give them courage and strength

Against all enemies, 

Both spiritual and physical, 

And hasten their safe journey, 

Back to their homes and families. 

If it be Your Holy Will

That they be gathered to Your bosom, 

With the eternal vanguard of the saints, 

Let their journey to Your everlasting arms

Be swift and painless, 

Where they may stand in honor and glory, 

Praising You for all eternity.

Amen

Source: Catholic Online