For our Troops and Our Nation

On this eve of Independence day, commonly called "the 4th" I feel it appropriate to give thanks for our troops, our president and our country.

"Dear Lord, as we prepare to celebrate our nation's birthday, let us take this opportunity to give you thanks for all you have given to us. For the leaders of our country, bless them and their families, help them to seek you in their decision, assist them in their discernment and let them know that without your guidance much of what they do is in vain. Let them know that you and you alone are the ruler and supreme being, and that without you, nothing is possible, but that with you all things are possible.
Be with the men and women who are in the service fighting to keep our country and world safe from the evil that persists. Bless their families who worry about their safety, give comfort to those who are fearful, and protection to those in harm's way. We honor them for their sacrifice and their willingness to do what so many are not willing to do. Keep them in your care and especially be with those who are celebrating this nation's birthday without loved ones for the first time.
Bless this nation, help us to return to being "under God" to know that it was because of you that we came into being, and that without you we could cease. Bring all of us to the keen awareness that it is because of your blessing on our lives that we were born here, and to never take this for granted. Thank you Lord for the United States of America, for our President George Bush, for our Vice President Dick Chaney and for all who serve this nation willingly and with pride and honor. It is in your name we pray. Amen"