November 11th will forever be a day of significance for our beloved country, as we honor military veterans and the armed forces. As a daughter and granddaughter of two courageous veterans —one who served in the Air Force and the other in the Army— holidays that acknowledge their service and sacrifice create a precious time to pause, reflect, and pray with grateful hearts.
Why We Celebrate Veterans’ Day
First, it is essential to understand why we celebrate Veterans Day. According to the Wounded Warriors Project, “Veterans Day was initially known as Armistice Day and celebrated the end of World War I. The armistice, or call for peace, signed by the Germans on November 11th, 1918, at the 'eleventh hour', ended the fighting between Allied forces and Germany. President Woodrow Wilson established Armistice Day one year later to honor those who served in WWI and celebrate the peace that followed.”
While there are many ways to celebrate and support the dedication of our military, the primary purpose of Veterans’ Day is to pay homage to the living veterans who served in war and to cover them in peace. So, let’s discover ways we can join our hands together and lift our hearts in prayer, along with meaningful ways to serve those who have so bravely served our nation.
Prayers for Veterans
A Prayer for Blessings
Father God, we thank you for the brave men and women who have stood up for life, liberty, and freedom. Their selfless sacrifices often go unmerited and unseen, but today, we humbly ask that You provide them with sweet blessings that remind them that their service is not only seen but deeply valued and honored. Lord, also help us stand in the gap where the images of war and loss can be met with gentle love and hope as we share our gratitude to those who have sacrificed it all for our beloved nation. Amen.
A Prayer for Hope and Healing
Lord, we lift all of those who have bravely served our country and still carry wounds. Perhaps they are physical, maybe they are more internal, but we ask for Your healing hand to cover and protect them as they strive to move forward in their lives. Grant them peace that surpasses all understanding and restore them in places that many may not see, giving their hearts hope to cling to Your mercy, grace, and overflowing compassion. Amen.
A Prayer for Protection and Provision
O Jesus, we come before You now and ask that You provide all the veterans protection, guidance, and provision as they seek to embrace the truth and power of Your precious promises. Promises that declare You will never leave or forsake them, that You work out all things for good, that You give strength to the weak, comfort to the hurting, and rest for the weary soul. Remind them that You are their defense, rock, and shield, and offer a safe place when they need to face days tainted with grief or sorrow. We ask this in Your holy name. Amen.
A Prayer for Peace
Gracious God, You are our trustworthy source of peace. As we honor the military forces and veterans today, we ask that You cover them with peace and comfort. Give them the courage to turn to You when anxious thoughts abound or stress robs them of the serenity You so graciously provide. As communities gather and honor those who have served, please lead and guide us in ways that we can embrace them with honor, dignity, respect, love, and peace. We are so grateful for their service and for Your precious peace, You can reclaim over their hearts. Amen.
Scriptures to Recite Over Our Veterans and Country
Blessed is the one who does not walk in step with the wicked or stand in the way that sinners take or sit in the company of mockers but whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers. Psalm 1:1-3
Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13
Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. Ephesians 6:11
“The Lord is my rock, my fortress and my deliverer; my God is my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield[a] and the horn[b] of my salvation. He is my stronghold, my refuge and my savior—from violent people you save me. “I called to the Lord, who is worthy of praise, and have been saved from my enemies. 2 Samuel 22:2-4
And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. 2 Corinthians 9:8
Meaningful Ways to Serve
Cards and Thank You Notes
Writing letters to veterans can mean a great deal, and not only blesses them, but also blesses your own heart. It’s a heartfelt and straightforward way to express gratitude to those who sacrifice so much, showing them how much you appreciate their service. There are many places to send these notes, but Operation Gratitude, along with many other non-profit organizations, provides practical steps and tips on writing letters and where to send them.
Local Events to Show Support
Many communities host parades and events to honor and support veterans. Check with your neighborhood, church, or even your local chamber of commerce to see how you can get involved and serve those who have served so faithfully.
The many benefits of attending these events include gaining personal accounts from veterans and hearing their powerful stories. Bring the family and let your children learn about the freedoms they have in this country, which were fought for by these brave men and women.
Donations to Non-Profits
Many organizations have a mission to continue assisting active or disabled veterans, including health services, job training, community building, and other benefits tailored to meet their specific needs. Explore some of the non-profit organizations listed below and consider how you can contribute to support veterans in your area.
The Hero Project: https://www.theheroesproject.org/
The Warrior Foundation Freedom: https://warriorfoundation.org/
Salute America’s Heroes: https://saluteheroes.org/
Shop Veteran Owned Businesses
Lastly, as we head into the holiday season and you are searching for the perfect gifts, consider shopping local and supporting small businesses owned by military families or veterans.
Contact your local Veterans Affairs (VA) office and learn how you can extend hope, volunteer, make a contribution, or even become an affiliated partner to create a business that makes a difference for veterans in your community. There are so many ways to show your support!
Closing Thoughts
May November 11th be a day that we all take a moment to pause, pray, and respond with open and sincere hearts, willing and ready to serve with grace, humility, and gratitude.
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