Lord, we pray for our brother, Justin, who will soon be deployed to Afghanistan in service of our country. We ask you to keep him safe from harm and warm in your love. Be with him in the scary times and help him be there for others in his strength. Remind him daily of the love that surrounds him. Thank you, Lord, for all those who work to keep us safe in our daily lives, and for the freedom of living in a country like ours. Bless all who serve in the military, and bring them home safe to their families. We ask in Jesus' name. Amen.

Lord, today I pray for the families of Bob and Harvey, who have died in the past weeks. Be with them as they mourn and help them through the days without the ones they loved. We know that you are with us always and that you promise the hope that we will see them again. Bless all those who mourn today and give us the courage and love to continue our work in the world until you call us home. Amen.