God
that was, is, and will be,

This weekend many will remember
Lives that were lost in battle.
For freedom.
For future.
For family.

In many churches
People will gather and remember.
They’ll celebrate that you have blessed our nation,
They’ll sing songs of nationalism,
And revel in this country’s "Victory in Jesus."

But for a growing number of us,
We are nauseated by this concept.
We remember that your victories don’t come through battle,
But through peace and sacrifice
In ways that many would see as weak.

We have seen too often that “God and Country”
Was more about country,
Was more about exceptionalism,
More about a flag,
More about being the greatest,
When you’ve said you bless the least.

God, help us remember that your kingdom is not exclusive.
Jesus, help us remember that your freedom is for all.
Spirit, help us remember that your peace effects change.

Amen.