Not just on memorial or veteran’s day but daily

Wake up Castle Rock

Not just on memorial or veteran’s day but daily

I would like to extend a special thank you to any of you who may be members (active or retired) of the Armed Forces—or loved someone who was. Not just on memorial or veteran’s day but daily thank you for your service and thank to your family members as well: There are times in military service, as in civilian life, that we can focus on the work or duties at hand and invite stress or anxiety into our lives. The Bible tells us, “cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.” (1 Peter 5:7) The Lord asks that you give your confusion and concerns over to Him so that He can remove these distractions and direct you on the proper course. Let His training inform your heart as you allow your military training to inform your work.

Doubt can strike us at any time, clouding our decision-making abilities and possibly putting us and those around us in danger. In these times of confusion, “consider him who endured such opposition from sinful men, so that you will not grow weary and lose heart.” (Hebrews 12:3) The Bible is filled with examples of those who have walked the path of the Lord through the most physically and morally trying times and triumphed over adversity due to their faith. Keep Him in your heart and He shall keep you in His hands.

While we may celebrate these holidays with the traditional hamburgers-and-hot-dogs barbecue and enjoy the heralding of the summer season, Memorial Day is so much more than sales at the mall and opening the pool. We have Memorial Day and veterans day so that we have a special designated time to remember those who have served in the military, honoring those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.

To me Whether they realized it or not, these men and women are in many ways Christ-like: they have answered a call to service, given themselves over and completely, and sacrificed their lives so that others may have freedom. The old song says that “freedom isn’t free,” and we should not forget that we are able to enjoy the freedom we have in the United States because someone gave their life for that freedom, just like Christ gave His life so that we would be eternally free. Be blessed and remain vigilant.

Willie T Ayers

“Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” —John 15:13

Praise to you, ever-watchful God, for you are our refuge and strength in every time and place. Send your blessing upon those who are serving our country in the armed forces. By your powerful Spirit, shield them from all harm. Uphold them in good times and bad, especially when danger threatens. Let your peace be the sentry that stands guard over their lives, so that they may return home safely. Look with compassion on all victims of war; ease their sufferings and heal their wounds. Put an end to wars over all the earth, and hasten the day when the human family will rejoice in lasting peace. Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns as the Prince of Peace, both now and for ever. Amen. + John F. Kinney Bishop of Saint Cloud, MN © 2003 Diocese of Saint Cloud. All rights reserve