Special Prayers for Memorial Day Gatherings

General Prayer:
Dear Father,
As we gather here today, be with us as we give special thanks for those who gave their lives for the freedom of our country. Also, we thank those who continue to give up their regular lives today, and go to places before unknown. Help them carry their loads during times of cold and when it's hot. Walk beside them and protect them as the enemy tries his best to harm them. Give them courage and strength and calm them during times of stress and fear.

And Father, we ask that you would guide and protect those left at home to carry on their lives. Many wives, husbands, moms, dads, children, families and friends must take over responsibilities they never dreamed would be put upon their shoulders. Encourage them and give them the faith that they too will never be far from you.

Through the many battles of our country You have been our leader. God, you've helped our people to be strong and support those who fight the battles. We ask for your continued help in many ways. We ask that you would shorten the time frame of this current war and guide our leaders to help make this happen.

In Jesus' name we pray.

Amen.

In Time of Sadness:
Dear God,
Be with us today as our family member is not able to join us around this table. Our gathering is saddened because we have one chair unfilled. Be with us and guide and protect us. We are grateful that you were with our family member during his/her time of fear and stress. We know that he/she is now in your heavenly care and that you continue to help all in need.

We pray that you would give us hope and push us into moving into the next part of our life's journey. It is not what we had planned, but we know that you had a purpose for our loss.

Also, we ask that you would help everyone in harms way, along with their friends and families.

In Jesus' name we pray.

Amen.

Family Prayer:
Dear God,
You've been walking and guiding soldiers during battles all through history. We know you especially helped our men and women who gave their lives and continue to give their lives to keep our country safe. We ask that you would be with the leadership of our country and guide them in making wise decisions that will move our country forward.

We ask that you help those left behind. They are in need of encouragement and help with tasks for which they are unprepared. Guide the children who live without their parents' direction and daily love. Help young mothers and fathers keep the faith.

We thank you for your continued goodness and love. We are grateful for all you've given us and for helping us understand the needs of others. Thank you for the blessings you've given this family. You've encouraged us and helped us during of trouble. You've been there during our joys and happiness. And not only our family, but for the families of our country we ask your continued blessings.

Be with all of us as we celebrate those who indeed deserve to be honored and respected. Be with us as we go about this day on the beginning of the summer season. Let us enjoy your outdoor creations and enjoy the beauties of nature.

Amen.

For Someone Alone:
Dear God,
Be with me as I'm alone today. Today is the day we in our country celebrate those who have given their lives for us and for those who continue to so. That's why I'm alone today. My person wasn't able to come and be with me.

I thank you for your goodness, God, and ask that you be with me. Please guide me and give me the strength to do what I must do. Hold me, push me - whatever I need.

For many years my family has trusted in You and they are helping me now. I ask that you care for them also and especially those whose health is failing. We have so many needs and You have so many ways to care for us. For this we are ever grateful.

Amen.