50 Days of Gratitude: Day 21

Each day on my list of things and people to pray for, I remember the people of Ukraine. What started over a year ago as a daily headline has faded into the background for those of us who don’t have a shared connection to that country. Except for our humanity, which should be enough.

War is complex and terrible. Scholars and theologians and people around whatever version of the water cooler they gather debate whether there is ever a justifiable reason for war. In the end, though, war is complex and terrible, no matter what.

Forty eight years ago today the war in Vietnam began to come to an end with the fall of Saigon. I honestly don’t remember much about it, being preoccupied with things that young teens are preoccupied with.

But I know, as the mother of a Marine and as the wife of an Air Force “brat” that military service is a sacrifice on the part of those who serve and on the part of those who love them.

Still, war is complex and terrible.

Today, I am thankful for those who have served in these complex and terrible places and for those who love them.

Cure your children’s warring madness, bend our pride to your control.

Shame our wanton, selfish gladness; rich in things and poor in soul.

God of Grace and God of Glory, ELW #705

Ain’t gonna study war no more….

Down By the Riverside, Spiritual