Armistice Day

Today we commemorate the end of World War One, which ended at the 11th hour, of the 11th day, of the 11th Month.
In that light, I thought it would be appropriate to spend a moment, not just thinking or reflecting on, what they died for, but also to pray for those in active service across the globe, from Australia and all other nations.

Almighty God, we commend to your gracious care and keeping all the men and women of our armed forces, and most especially those whose mission places them in harm's way. Defend them day by day with your heavenly grace; strengthen them in their trials and temptations; give them courage to face the perils which beset them; and grant them a sense of your abiding presence wherever they may be; through Jesus Christ our Lord. (adapted from prayer 25, Book of Common Prayer page 823)

And likewise, today we should also pray for peace..

Eternal God, in whose perfect kingdom no sword is drawn but the sword of righteousness, no strength known but the strength of love: So mightily spread abroad your Spirit, that all peoples may be gathered under the banner of the Prince of Peace, as children of one Father; to whom be dominion and glory, now and forever. (Prayer 4, Book of Common Prayer page 815).

In memory of those who died in war, and in the firm and fervent hope
of a just and lasting peace for all people, we ask that you pour your gift of healing grace upon us.
Comfort and strengthen those who suffer from oppression and natural disaster,
from hunger and isolation, from illness and sorrow.
And keep us all ever mindful of the peace that is more than the absence of war
the peace that is the presence of compassion and understanding,
faith and hope, justice and love, throughout all creation.
Help us to build a world that has no room for hatred, no place for violence,
a world in which love can live
God, be in our hearts and thinking as we bring our memories into the light of your love..
(the full service sheet can be found here)