Change of Command Prayer, 12th POB (2021 07 17)

This change of command prayer was delivered at Fort Lewis, WA upon the change of command of one my Battalions. Their Chaplain could not be there, so I filled in for him, offering this prayer. As is my custom, I also framed it and gave it to the incoming and outgoing Commanders.
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Our Father:
I thank you for this joyous day and occasion; I thank you for the gift of those who are present; and I thank you for new beginnings and that You are a God of new beginnings.
You remind us in your word that there is a time for everything and a season for every activity under the Heavens.  As we celebrate the leadership and faithfulness of our outgoing commander, LTC Mario Morales, I pray that you would bless both he and his family richly and abundantly in their life’s journeys.  Use his experiences and relationships formed and cultivated here at the 12th POB to enrich the lives of those You have prepared him for in this next season.  May he know that you Yourself go before him and are with him.
And, Father, for LTC Ricky Mandello, I thank you for sending him and his family to us.  I pray that He would be for us a Joseph, who sought your wisdom and led with courage, conviction, and boldness and – because of his presence and leadership – the people were blessed.  In those unavoidable difficult times and tough decisions, may He seek you for wisdom and discernment as you to promise it to us if we ask of You.
And, lastly, Father, I pray for our Soldiers here; our 12th POB family.  You instruct us to serve those whom you have put over us so that their work will be a joy and not a burden.  May our service together with and for LTC Mandello make this a season not only of productivity and accomplishments but of joy.
Our present and our future is in your hands, and that is truly a good place to be.  Lead us and guide us, I pray, and help us to follow You.
In your name I ask all these things.  AMEN.