Regular readers will know that the Military Christian Fellowship holds a special place in our prayers. Their June prayer update had some excellent insights into praying for families. We use this excerpt with their kind permission.
"Stuck to many of the bumpers of the cars driving around a CFB is a sticker that says - "Wife - Toughest Job in the Army". This speaks to an essential truth about the military family - it is not an easy life, it is prone to stresses and strains like almost no other occupation, and everyone shares the load. Especially now when so many undervalue and even despise such call to serve country and Queen.
The Canadian Forces has invested a lot of resources in recent years in supporting families through the Military Family Resource Centres on the Bases. There is more awareness of some of the problems faced by families; however, the reality is that the families are more stressed than ever because of the disintegration of the nuclear family ideal, the loss of traditional or "kingdom" values, and an increased spirit of isolation. The isolation occurs also to Christians.
Military life often involves long hours of work, and frequent, extended absences from the family for the spouse who is a member. Increasingly, both spouses are members of the Forces, which adds an extra layer of complexity, especially if there are children. These absences are not just business trips to safe settings but often the absent spouse is half-way around the world, getting shot at.
Typical deployments last for six months, with two to three months of very intense training beforehand. During the training the member is largely absent, if not in body, then in spirit as they prepare mentally for the challenge to come. When deployed, the spouse staying behind must assume the roles that the other usually does; around the house, with the kids, etc. The spouse who leaves often goes through experiences that change them profoundly, and can leave them scarred physically or psychologically. Fitting the couple back together is a huge challenge, and often it does not work. The rate of infidelity and divorce is high.
The situation on the bases can contribute to problems. Despite some efforts to curb it, social activity is centred on alcohol. Housing on the bases is old and sometimes run down. Everyone seems to know everyone else's business. There are many affairs, domestic violence, alcoholism, and much darkness.
This is a very short introduction to a very long and complex topic. It is certain that the experience of those in the military varies widely, and many may never face these challenges, but many do. They need your prayers."
