Dear God, thank you for preserving our freedom once again throughout 2008, in a time of war and financial crises. Thank you for those who gave their lives for us, in Iraq and Afghanistan, and all other places where peace has been beset by the aggressions of dishonorable men. Ease the pain for the family members they left behind, and teach us to reach out to them in this hour of their great need.
We pray for those heroes who, both willingly and valiantly, continue to place themselves in harm’s way on our behalf. Protect them from the bullets and roadside bombs of our cowardly enemies. They tire on the battlefield of loneliness, thinking of wives, husbands, mothers, fathers, sons and daughters a half-world away. Comfort them and their families and friends, keeping anxiety far from them, as you bring encouragement and hope of a joyous reunion in a few short days ahead.
Father, thank you for our government and our leaders. Many are offering their services in new positions of responsibility and authority, and they need your guidance. Protect our new President and Commander-in-Chief, Barack Obama, and guide his every thought. As he is expected to acquire much wisdom in a short time, surround him with skilled advisors, and give him strength and courage to walk in Your will. When he is right, give him the fortitude to stand firmly, unwavering against his adversaries. When he is wrong, give him discernment and humility to seek godly counsel. Find none in our midst who cannot share in this prayer because of trivial differences of philosophical thought, political sentiment, or color of skin. Bring unity and harmony to the diverse people of our land.
Continue our freedom and our prosperity, and grant us peace. Cast strife, selfishness, and greed from our thoughts. Break out hearts in compassion for those in need. It is in the name of Jesus Christ our Savior that we present our praise, thanksgiving, and supplication to you. Amen.