In preparing to lead worship for Sunday (memorial day Sunday) I wanted to somehow include something related to our military families (we have some that have served and some who have children serving).
The only hymn that came to mind was "Eternal Father Strong to Save". This is known as The Navy Hymn.
In looking around for other 'hymns' related to other branches I found out that there really aren't any other 'hymns' for the other branches of service. But "Eternal Father..." is a great one that actually covers 'land, sea, and air' throughout it's verses.
The other thing that I wanted to make sure was to not glorify war or focus too much on country but to directly tie our worship and petition God to watch over those who are serving or have served.
If you're not familiar with the hymn I suggest you check it out.
Here are the lyrics:
- Eternal Father, strong to save,
- Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
- Who bidd'st the mighty ocean deep
- Its own appointed limits keep;
- Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
- For those in peril on the sea!
- O Christ! Whose voice the waters heard
- And hushed their raging at Thy word,
- Who walkedst on the foaming deep,
- And calm amidst its rage didst sleep;
- Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
- For those in peril on the sea!
- Most Holy Spirit! Who didst brood
- Upon the chaos dark and rude,
- And bid its angry tumult cease,
- And give, for wild confusion, peace;
- Oh, hear us when we cry to Thee,
- For those in peril on the sea!
- O Trinity of love and power!
- Our brethren shield in danger's hour;
- From rock and tempest, fire and foe,
- Protect them wheresoe'er they go;
- Thus evermore shall rise to Thee
- Glad hymns of praise from land and sea.
- You can read more of the history of this hymn here:
- http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eternal_Father,_Strong_to_Save