Day’s Journey · A Veterans Day Reflection
By Lisa Rene Delgado
On September 30, 1983, I stood on the pavement with my coworkers at Hughes Helicopters and watched the Apache take flight. I never thought I would be part of something so big. Standing there that day, I felt honored to have a small part in work that would serve the men and women of our military.
Even now, when I’m driving and an Apache flies overhead, I think about the people I stood beside on that pavement. Then I think about the people who would climb aboard that aircraft and carry out the work they were trained to do. My part was on the ground at Hughes. When I see an Apache Today, I still feel like I was part of serving in the way I could. I also feel deep respect for those who served in uniform.
Paul begins his letter to the Philippians by telling them that he thanks God when he remembers them. I think of those words Today. The sight of a helicopter can bring back a moment from my own life, and that moment can become a prayer for someone whose name I may never know.
To the men and women who have served in our armed forces, thank you. I may never hear all that your service asked of you. Today, I want you to know I remember you, thank God for you, and pray for you.
A Prayer for Veterans Day
LORD, thank You for the men and women who have served our country. Be near to those who carry pain from their years of service and those who miss the people they served beside. Strengthen their families and give them friends who will listen and stay close.
Forgive me for the times I’ve taken another person’s service for granted or hurried past someone who needed my attention. Teach me to slow down, to listen with patience, and to show my gratitude in the ways I can. May our veterans know Your care through the people who walk beside them.
In Jesus’ name, amen.
Scripture References and Acknowledgment
Philippians 1:3 and Romans 12:10. Based on Lisa Rene Delgado’s personal recollection, with editorial assistance from ChatGPT (OpenAI).