Watching the 6 p.m. War

Bravely they smile for the camera,
so young and ready to prove their worth;
Pawns in a bloody struggle
they march to the ends of the earth

Helplessly we watch them go,
and wonder if or when they'll die;

We mute our anger, hide our tears,
and beseechingly to God we cry.

Lord, for our sons and daughters
on battle fields in foreign lands,
we ask for mercy and protection;
Grant wisdom to our leaders,
Keep us secure in Your mighty hands.

Wars have long been mankind's way,
Misery results from evil's play;
Helpless, we turn to You.

In willful sin our nation is stumbling,
High ideals and goals are crumbling.
Forgive us, heal us;
May our hardened hearts be humbling,
Restore your Spirit to us.

Give faith for fear, renew our sight;
Take us from darkness to Your light,
Father, we turn to You.

Bravely they smile for the camera,
so young and ready to prove their worth;
Our hearts and prayers go with them as
they march to the ends of the earth.

--Elaine Hardt ©1991