Happy Memorial and Gratitude Day!
I stepped on the grounds of St. Vincent de Paul Church Saturday night and this sight welcomed me. I had to snap the photo. Those flags are a reminder of the freedoms and liberties that our brave servicemen and women gave their lives for and continue to remind us of those serving today. And, they were a reminder to me that I am walking through these OPEN church doors where I can freely worship God Who gave us His Son, Jesus, for our freedom and our liberties in Him. I can only imagine what it means to have been a parent, spouse or child of a serviceperson who saw those flags. I’m certain there were veterans and/or they have family members who are serving our country who were proud when they saw those flags, too.
There are not enough words of gratitude to express to those who have gone before us and to those serving today who are willing to sacrifice their lives for our freedoms. You can see my meager attempt at my front door, but there are flags on porch railings all around here at my apartment home. When veterans or present service men and women see those stars and stripes, I know they are reminded of the patriotism that we harbor in our hearts. We can say “thank you”. I said that to one of my neighbors who served in the military for over 20 years. If we personally know any veterans and want to make their day, let’s thank them for their service to our country. And, when we see someone in military uniform, let’s thank them and even pay for their meal. This simple action on our part will be long remembered, and hearing and seeing our appreciation can make all their sacrifices seem worthwhile.
With heartfelt gratitude…..
** To all military servicemen and women. You are selflessly giving and devoted, and your sacrifices do not go unnoticed. You are so deeply appreciated.
** To the families of our military members, know you have our sincerest thanks. You are generous and brave behind the scenes, and your sacrifices do not go unnoticed.
** And to those families of the fallen, may you feel the all-encompassing arms of Jesus around you on this Memorial Day and always. May you rest in the heart of God, a heart that knows the ache of loss Himself. He longs to comfort you and love you.
Throughout his eight years in the Oval Office, President Ronald Reagan brought a renewed sense of optimism to a weary nation disillusioned by war and scandal. He repeatedly described America as the “shining city upon a hill.” Were it not for the work of our veterans down through history, America wouldn’t shine as brightly or perhaps would have ceased to shine at all. Because of them, the glow of democracy still beams out for all the world to see.
On this Memorial Day, may we put aside all the petty things we complain about, and sincerely be a people who humble ourselves and pray and offer thanksgiving to God Almighty for our great country and for those who served and continue to serve us so unselfishly! God bless America! And, God bless our service men and women from yesterday, today and tomorrow!