Greetings Prayer Warriors,
On this Veterans Day, I began reflecting on the service of
our veterans and active duty military from all branches of the Armed
Forces. Like a fog clearing, I see how “Christ-like” their sacrifice
is. For the good of others, they commit to leaving their families for
long periods, and unfortunately, sometimes forever. They endure hardship, pain,
praise, and sometimes even ridicule, as well as emotional, physical, and mental
stress. Whether on the front lines or in the supply chain, they work for the
good of our nation and other nations.
For I am already being poured out like a libation, and the time of my departure is at hand. 2 Timothy 4:6
Often forgotten are the spouses of these active duty soldiers and veterans. Their sacrifice is one that mirrors our Blessed Mother’s. They sacrifice their own comfort and security by “holding down the fort” while their loved one is absent. The spend time worrying and offering their sacrifice of prayer, loneliness, weariness, and emotional stress as they live through their own tour of duty at home.
Let us not grow tired of doing good, for in due time we shall reap our harvest, if we do not give up. Galatians 6:9
Then there are the spouses that accompany a veteran post war/tour of duty. Often they too experience the after-effects of their spouse’s tour of duty. The more horrific the soldier’s experience, the more silent the veteran is about their tour. Often the spouse walks in tandem with their veteran, traveling the rocky path of PTSD, an alternate “via dolorosa”.
When in your own land you go to war against an enemy that is attacking you, you shall sound the alarm on the trumpets, and you shall be remembered before the LORD, your God, and be saved from your foes. Numbers 10:9
My gratitude is immense for our veterans, but our prayers
need to reach even higher heights. Spend some time this week in prayer
for the marriages of our active duty military as well as all veterans.
Lord, bless our active
and retired military personnel, and as our Divine Physician, heal the festering
wounds that seek to cripple their marriages.
Look with compassion on all they have sacrificed, and grant them
extraordinary graces. Protect their
children, and sooth their souls. In your
great love, hear our prayers. Amen.
Peace, Joy and Love,
Janet
Pray for a veteran! Pass it on!
