| Brothers and Sisters in the Lord:
I include below a prayer that your family might offer today to commemorate those who have given their lives, not only for our freedom but for the sustaining and protection of our physical health as a nation. Let us join together with fervent hearts, and remember all who paid the ultimate price for fighting the battles with which they were faced. May their memory be eternal! Christ is Risen! Truly, He is Risen! Fr. Dimitrios FOR THOSE WHO GAVE THEIR LIVES THAT WE MIGHT LIVE O Sovereign God of the nations, on this Memorial Day, we remember and give thanks for those who have given their lives in the service of our country. When the need was greatest, they stepped forward and did their duty to defend the freedoms that we enjoy, and to win the same for others. O God, You Yourself have taught us that no love is greater than that which gives itself for another. These honored dead gave the most precious gift they had, life itself, for loved ones and neighbors, for comrades and country – and for us. We beseech You to grant rest, as well, to all those health care providers and first responders, all warriors, who gave the ultimate gift fighting the present pandemic which threatens this and all nations. This battle is no less serious and consequential, and has taken hundred of thousands of the promising lives of our fellows. Help us to honor the memory of those who fought wars and those who defended our nation against the battle to conquer this virus, by caring for the family members they have left behind, by ensuring that their sick and wounded comrades are properly cared for, by being watchful caretakers of the freedom and dignity of human life for which they gave their lives, and by demanding that no other young men and women follow them to a soldier’s grave unless the reason is worthy and the cause is just. Holy One, help us to remember that freedom is not free and that human health is a gift from You. There are times when the human cost is beyond belief. Never let us forget those who paid so terrible a price to ensure that freedom and our common life would be our legacy. Though their names may fade with the passing of generations, may we never forget what they have done. Help us to be worthy of their sacrifice, O God, help us to be worthy. For unto You are due all glory, thanksgiving, and worship this day and forevermore. Amen. |
