For memorial day

Most Holy Father, We are thankful for the sacrifice so many throughout our history have made, for the men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice, and for their families who had to carry on without them. It is a sacrifice that has become too easy to forget. For those who have it, freedom is like oxygen. It’s something we just have. Many will not understand just how precious either is until they are at risk of being taken away. Today I remember the many sacrifices made and debts we cannot repay. Today I pray for the God of heaven to bless the families of those who have lost loved ones while serving our nation. We pray for you, Oh Lord, to bless and comfort the walking wounded who are still with us, and bless their families as well. It is also our prayer that we remember their sacrifice and the precious gift of freedom every day, not just once a year or when they are in danger of being taken away.

In Jesus Name, AMEN

 

Mother’s Day

As Mother's Day fast approaches, we are happy to celebrate the mothers in our lives.  Our mothers have played and still playing many different and important roles in our families. One of the most important that we sometimes fail to see is how hard they work to keep us safe and happy daily.

It is no secret to us the unique role and crucial role mothers have in the life of their children and in some cases the children around their children.   Motherhood is truly a love like no other.  It is a love that is unknown or unless or until you have experienced this blessing from God.   It is also laden with heavy responsibilities. 

Let us all of the Christian faith join in celebration and prayer for all the mothers in our lives.  Remember that even Jesus had a mother here on earth, Mother Mary.  God has a love for all mothers as he had a love for Mary.   As you know, God is our Father, but he also has the heart of a mother.  He sustains us as a mother does, He comforts us as our mothers have, and he teaches us every day as our mothers have.

God has orchestrated motherhood to be one of the most unique, most rewarding, and challenging roles a woman has in her life.  Think back on how your own mother rose to the challenges and shepherded you into adulthood.  She did not stop there either.  How many times as an adult did you call your mother for advice or just to talk with her as you needed to hear her voice.  For those of us who have lost our mothers, how many of us yearn to hear her voice again to help soothe a moment of crisis. 

I want to end this with a prayer I have liked for a while dealing with mothers.  I borrowed it and paraphrased it.

Today, God, we pray for all mothers. Guide them in the various stages of life.  Remind them of Your presence through their children who have learned life at their side, who come to them for assistance, who have helped their children find their own independence, and who at some point will go to them to assist them as they age. Give these mothers and their children the wisdom to make sound decisions and the strength to accept them. Fill their relationships with love, understanding, and compassion. Let memories flow to warm their hearts. Let joy bloom each day of their lives. Amen.