Article January 4, 2010 Issue

What needs your prayer

TOM WHEATLEY

The need for prayerful support of military men and women serving in areas of armed conflict can't be overstated. In my work as a Christian Science chaplain during three tours of duty in Iraq, I've given a lot of thought to praying for the troops, and I'm happy to offer a few insights on what soldiers face, so that our prayers for them can be more specific and far-reaching:

For me, the 23rd and 91st Psalms have been foundational, as well as this passage from Ephesians: "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God ..." (6:12, 13).

A starting point is praying for safety and success in the soldiers' mission to bring freedom to regions that experience daily attacks on stability and progress. In my individual talks and counselling with soldiers in Iraq, I've observed over and over that they do feel they're making a difference by helping the Iraqi people maintain order and relative peace while they continue to rebuild their country. The younger generation values the idea of making a real difference. But when they are attacked and a fellow soldier is wounded or killed, they can begin to feel frustrated and disillusioned with the mission.

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