As we reflect on the 82nd anniversary of D-Day this weekend, we naturally and dutifully think of our Armed Forces storming the beaches of Normandy, and the bravery and sacrifice of sailors, soldiers and aviators involved. But let us also remember that behind those troops stood an army of prayer warriors.
In the days leading up to the invasion, Scripture Readers held services in barracks, camps and messes across Britain. Accompanying a National Day of Prayer, on Sunday 4th June 1944, just two days before the landings, a one-hour prayer vigil was held at the headquarters of the 2nd British Army Group, responsible for executing the British invasion. Around 400 officers and soldiers gathered to seek God’s helping hand and blessing. Their courage was not only in battle, but in trusting that God was with them. As Christians, we believe that the favourable outcomes of the invasion were, in part, God’s providential intervention.
Similar faithfulness was shown by Robert Laidlaw, a Christian from New Zealand on holiday with his wife and children in UK when war broke out. He prayed for guidance and felt called by God to stay in Britain rather than return home, with family and to safety. Very soon after D-Day, he led the first team of ten Scripture Readers into Normandy, offering spiritual care to troops suffering from battle fatigue and trauma. Amidst the horrors of war, from D-Day onwards, the Word of God brought peace, resilience, renewed hope and courage in adversity.
Today’s Scripture Readers continue that faithful tradition, sharing the gospel with our troops, discipling and building the resilience necessary for them to make the right moral decisions and help prevent the worst horrors that military life and witness can bring.
PRAY WITH US
- Thank God for the opportunities Paul has had to get involved with the individuals at the ASBM&HD. Pray that he might be able to share the hope of Christ with some of them, specifically as they grieve the loss of one of their own.
