A Charming Fourth

 "Our fathers' God, to Thee, Author of liberty, to thee we sing!" ~ "My Country, 'Tis of Thee” V4

Independence Day, celebrated on July 4th, is a cherished U.S. holiday marked by enduring traditions and unique festivities. There’ll be parades, rodeos, MLB baseball, and, of course, fireworks. Joey Chestnut will return to Coney Island’s Hot Dog Eating Contest, and people will take an Oath of Allegiance to become U.S. citizens at government sites, stadiums, and historic venues “from sea to shining sea.”

But there’s simply nothing better than the way small towns in America embrace and display their patriotic pride! They display classic Americana that you can't get in big city events. Everyone pitches in, from the mayor driving her antique car to a banker pulling a float with his 1928 John Deere Model C tractor.

On July 4^th, in this tiny, fictional town, excitement grows as the day’s festivities get set to begin. Lines form early along curbs, people vying for that perfect spot along Main Street. Life here is lived up close; today, residents will celebrate and mourn together.

It’s more than a time for family gatherings and public celebrations. Here, America’s birthday offers a chance to reflect on our nation's heritage and the sacrifices made for freedom. It's a day to take pride in the nation's progress and achievements.

A bright red convertible leads the parade, with Junior Miss “Something” waving from the backseat. The parade route was short, so her honorary reign lasted less than an hour.

A marching band follows, playing familiar tunes. Steeped in red, white, and blue decorations, it features a float made by a local hardware store. Leo, its owner, wore a straw hat and dangled a paper fish from a pole, pretending he was fishing. Local kids walked beside the float, cheerfully tossing candy to eager children.

The procession included clowns, fire and rescue vehicles, Shriner cyclists, and people dressed in historic costumes. Some take the opportunity to show off their favorite pet.

The parade route stretched about three blocks, ending at the park where members from the American Legion grilled hamburgers and hot dogs. Adults visited with one another while kids swam, played sand volleyball, and got their faces painted. Traditional games like sack races, watermelon seed spitting contests, turtle races, and a 10k run contribute to the day's special atmosphere.

As the day lingered, some fished or napped until it was time for fireworks. Hundreds of brilliant, explosive, once-a-year fireworks light the sky! Maybe they pale by comparison to large pyrotechnic celebrations, but to these townies, they were magical.

The day retreats too quickly as darkness blankets the night. They were together on this day, together in one place, gazing up at the stars together. It’s a perfect ending for this charming small town on the Fourth of July.

Precious Lord, today we’re reminded of those who’ve sacrificed for our freedom, just like Your Son, Jesus. Let us never take freedom, both physical and spiritual, for granted. May we always remember that a very high price was paid for both. Amen

Something Much Bigger

 “The Lord is my refuge and my fortress, in whom I trust.” ~ Psalm 91:2

The Military doesn’t care what your motivation is for joining their ranks; they figure you’ll figure it out by the end of Basic Training. As a combative teen lacking honest introspection, Aliyah joined to FIGHT… to earn the same respect that male soldiers receive by default.

Her journey began with days of physical exertion that stretched her physical limits, testing her fortitude and dedication. Those challenges helped shape new levels of trust, integrity, and honor.

Facing heavy artillery fire during an early mission, their Sergeant was mortally injured. “So, this is real combat,” she thought – intense, bloody, primitive. Defenders and attackers, each fighting for survival in the worst ways a human can endure and inflict.

No rookie soldier feels ready for battle, but when duty called, the Army’s core values kicked in. Aliyah swallowed her fear and assumed the leadership role they needed. Together, her team fought bravely, using their skills and teamwork to defend their position and ensure the safety of their fellow soldiers.

Aliyah later sat with her team, fatigue etched on every face, but their spirits were high. They’d faced adversity and emerged stronger, united by their shared experience.

It was then that Aliyah understood what it truly meant to be a soldier. She’d become part of something much bigger than herself, a team of devoted men and women who protect our great Nation, allowing us to enjoy the freedoms and lifestyles that she, herself, often took for granted.

The U.S. Army was American before America, born more than a year before the Declaration of Independence. Today, we celebrate the 250^th anniversary of its creation by the Second Continental Congress in 1775.

The Army’s history is thus America’s history and extends far beyond battles, forts, and armaments. 

As the largest United States military branch, the Army has influenced all facets of American life and culture, from technological innovation, business management practices, and religious traditions.

How do they keep doing it? Maybe it’s the American Flag in their hearts as they pressed forward while bombs were exploding around them. Or the gratitude they felt for the freedom provided by those who’d soldiered before them.

While the Army's mission does involve armed combat, its scope extends far beyond combat. The Army's mere presence discourages potential adversaries from initiating aggression. They also provide essential support and assistance to communities affected by natural disasters in this country and around the globe.

The Army’s core values of Loyalty, Duty, Respect, Selfless Service, Honor, Integrity, and Personal Courage are intended to develop smart, thoughtful, and innovative soldiers of high moral character.

God bless our soldiers serving today, and those who are still fighting battles in their minds.

“[M]y final prayer is this: that God will bless America, so that she may increasingly become, and long remain: ’One Nation, under God, indivisible. With liberty and justice for all.’ God bless America!” ~ Pope John Paul II, 10/7/1979, after his first papal visit to the US

Remembering Our Warriors

 "Deliver me from the hand of my enemies, and from those that persecute me.” ~ Psalm 31:15

They were only kids on that cloudy morning in northern France. Richard, a D-Day veteran, was 19 when assigned to a tank landing craft that landed at Omaha Beach on June 6, 1944. More than 30,000 survived machine gunfire, storming the beach before nightfall. Now 99, he still recalls hosing blood off the deck from some of those 2,501 who’d perish that day.

Today, Richard sat in a wheelchair with about two dozen comrades before the Memorial. Smaller in number than ever, their group joined thousands of onlookers honoring the event with parachute jumps, flyovers, parades, and historical reenactments.

Richard struggled to stand as the advancing color guard approached. He remained at attention for the National Anthem and the Pledge of Allegiance.

A singer was then introduced. She was just 7 years old.

Madison wore a patriotic dress with red, white, and blue sequins. She strode confidently onto the stage, microphone in hand, and raised her arms poignantly. The girl beamed affectionately as she sang: “God Bless America, land that I love!”

The ballad was written in 1938 by Irving Berlin in hopes “that it’ll continue to be popular, especially in times when people feel a need for some vocal expression of their patriotism.”

Her voice climbed until it wavered, imbuing every word with humility, as she admired the centenarians with gratitude: “Through the night, with a light, from Above.” And as the song reached a booming crescendo, Madison raised her hands emphatically, palms up... and belted: “God bless America, my home sweet home!”

It all made sense – her eyes had shone so brilliantly.

Her performance came from a little girl’s heart, a budding life. Her ambition was to shine. She hoped to shine a bright light upon those who sacrificed, defended our freedom, and love America.

Warriors sat before her, who’d fought against darkness, and who would soon return to inescapable darkness. There’s a spiritual side to war, and it’s best expressed by the old adage, "There are no atheists in foxholes!" Many soldiers pray when shrapnel and bullets fly, if not audibly, then silently in God's presence.

Her Dad, a disabled Gulf War veteran, proudly wears his Purple Heart. Her grandfather retired as a Navy Master Chief, and she currently has numerous cousins serving our country." Madison’s Mom revealed, "We teach our children to honor our veterans for all that they do every day.

It’s everyone’s responsibility to instill respect and empathy for veterans in our kids. Sharing stories and personal accounts of service members helps children understand their experiences and appreciate their contributions. Sharing D-Day is another opportunity to teach young people about the importance of their service and sacrifice.

“Almighty God: Our sons, pride of our Nation, this day have set upon a mighty endeavor, a struggle to preserve our Republic, our religion, and our civilization, and to set free a suffering humanity. Lead them straight and true; give strength to their arms, stoutness to their hearts, steadfastness in their faith. Amen” (FDR, June 6, 1944)

A Little Respect

"Honor one another above yourselves." ~ Romans 12:10

Lou (74) and his wife Ann were looking forward to a quiet dinner at Cracker Barrel, enjoying its southern charm and homestyle cooking. A proud veteran, Lou wore his U.S. Navy cap, symbolizing his Vietnam-era service.

While they were being seated, Lou noticed a table nearby with five young men. Although not in uniform, he recognized their “high and tight” military haircuts. They noticed him too, and were about to make this evening memorable for Lou and Ann.

Once they’d ordered, one of the men came over and stood at Lou’s table. Lou stood up, coming face-to-face with the guy who thrust his hand out in Lou’s direction. “Your cap drew our attention. Thank you from all of us,” he said, motioning for the other four to join him at Lou’s table.

One by one, each of the others walked to the table and expressed deep respect for Lou’s service and the sacrifices he made during his active duty. Their gratitude was genuine and heartfelt. For the restaurant’s patrons, it was a touching sight; young servicemen paying reverence to a veteran from decades ago. Their actions spoke volumes about the bond that exists among those who serve and those who will carry the torch into the future.

Moved by their empathy and sincerity, Lou smiled humbly, grateful for the sincerity of their recognition. Ann watched proudly as these young soldiers showed such politeness and admiration for her husband.

When Lou and Ann finally requested their check, the waiter informed them that it had already been taken care of. The Marines had secretly paid for their meal. Across the top of it, one of them wrote “Semper Fi” and “Oorah!” at the bottom. Their kind gesture left the couple speechless.

Daubing away silent tears, Lou watched as the young Marines got up to leave. But before walking out the door, all five lined up near the exit and waited.

As Lou walked past them, they snapped to attention and raised their arms in a precise military salute as a gesture of respect and a sign of comradeship.

The restaurant fell silent as the patrons watched this touching farewell, a collective appreciation for Lou’s service and the sacrifices made by veterans everywhere. Few groups deserve our appreciation and respect more than those who’ve served in the U.S. military.

Veterans and their families have made huge sacrifices, shaping the course of our nation's history,  protecting our freedoms, and shaping our future - all while facing their own personal challenges.

No duty is more urgent than acknowledging what our veterans have done for us all. Advocating for improved health/wellness support, the elimination of homelessness, and providing better job training/career opportunities are just some ways to show your support. But, as Lou remembers, even small gestures can make a lasting impact.

God of peace,  we come before you full of gratitude for all our veterans who’ve selflessly fought for our country and those who stand ready to defend our freedoms today. We thank them for their courage, sacrifice, and dedication. Amen

One Nation Under God

 “Blessed is the nation whose God is the Lord." ~ Psalm 33:12

It's not part of the Constitution, nor does it establish a state religion. It wasn’t originally even a product of government legislation. By all accounts, it was a marketing gimmick by a clever sloganeer to sell more U.S. flags.

Before classes began on the morning of October 21, 1892, children at schools across the country rose to their feet, faced a newly installed American flag, and, for the first time, recited these 22 words written by a man few people knew.

"I pledge allegiance to my Flag and the Republic for which it stands, one nation, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

It was hastily written in 1892 by Baptist Minister Francis Bellamy, an advertising salesman for the “The Youth’s Companion,” (1827–1929), America’s largest children’s magazine. Its early issues encouraged "virtue and piety,” and warned against “the ways of transgression".

The Companion offered U.S. flags as a marketing promotion to readers who sold subscriptions. With the 400th anniversary of Columbus’ arrival in the New World approaching, the weekly sought to raise the U.S. flag in every classroom across the Nation.

Bellamy launched into his mission with evangelical passion. To induce schools to purchase Old Glory, he proposed his “Pledge of Allegiance” be recited by all students at the start of every day.

The gimmick worked.

On October 21, 1892, millions of kids kickstarted their day by reciting the “Pledge of Allegiance.” They stood erect giving the traditional Roman salute. The magazine sold thousands more flags.

By the 1920s, Italian Fascists and later German Nazis embraced the same Roman salute, but with more menacing intent. So, when the U.S. entered World War II, Congress amended the Flag Code to require the “Pledge” be recited by facing the flag with the right hand over the heart.

In response to the Communist threat, President Eisenhower in 1954 encouraged Congress to add the words "under God" as it reads today:

"I pledge allegiance to the flag of the United States of America, and to the republic for which it stands, one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all."

The additional two words were added to “reaffirm America's transcendence of religious faith in America’s heritage and future” and “strengthen those spiritual weapons which forever will be our country’s most powerful resource in peace and war.”

Today, all but three states (Wyoming, Vermont, and Hawaii) require the “Pledge of Allegiance” be recited in public schools, with varying exemptions for students or staff who wish to opt out.

Despite Monday’s national holiday being overshadowed by the President’s Inauguration, we must never forget the life, leadership, and inspiration of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Raised in a family of faith, he strived to be a minister of God’s Word. Dr. King believed that love, even love of enemies, was the only way to achieve victory over hate, violence, and injustice.

Father God, help us remain hopeful and optimistic about our country’s future. Guide our leaders with faith, generosity, wisdom, and courage. God Bless the USA! Amen

One in a Million

“Share each other's burdens, and so obey His command." ~ Galatians 6:2

Their relationship formed in the mid-90s while both served as Board members of an Indianapolis grant-making foundation. Dwayne Isaacs was the foundation's attorney. Terry Kahn served as the HR Director of a local hospital. Calling them friends would’ve been a stretch – they were colleagues who never socialized.

When Kahn left the board in 2010, Isaacs doubted their paths would cross again. He was wrong. Kahn called, suggesting they have lunch.

The two became regular lunch companions every month for the next 10 years. Kahn chose the restaurants, selecting places that took coupons. They always went Dutch.

Over the course of their meetings, the reclusive, penny-pinching Kahn began to share details about himself. His parents fled Nazi Germany and settled in America. After serving three years in Vietnam, Terry joined the Veterans Administration where he worked for 30 years.

Kahn had a reputation for being infamously frugal. He lived in a modest house, drove an old Honda, and carried no cell phone because it was “a crazy expense.” Even when he died in 2021, alone in a nursing facility from non-alcoholic cirrhosis of the liver, he demanded no obituary, emphasizing his commitment to living a simple, unassuming life.

Although Kahn had already instructed Isaacs on where to find his documents once he died, he wouldn't reveal his net worth until pressed to do so in his final days.

The modest Indianapolis man had never married and left behind no immediate family.

Terry directed his money be given to "charity," though he didn’t specify which one(s) he favored. Isaacs revealed later that having to distribute Kahn's portfolio weighed heavily on him.

He was floored when they saw the numbers. Kahn was worth more than $13 million. He’d received a small inheritance from his parents. But he’d been a savvy investor using a simple formula: “Spend less, save more, and invest the rest.”

Isaacs wanted to honor Kahn by giving to organizations with which he would have identified. No donations would go to large organizations, because “they already have enough money!” So, he began cold calling select nonprofits and asking them: “What would you do with $1 million?”

He distributed gifts ranging from $500,000 to $2 million to a dozen worthy groups until the money was gone. Recipients included an organization that provides teachers in poor schools with free educational supplies, a local YMCA for upgrades to its sports facilities, one that sends medical teams to developing nations, and a foundation committed to medical research on liver diseases.

Isaacs believes Kahn would be pleased. He served his country and will continue serving humanity in equally unselfish ways through his posthumous gifts. The man known for being frugal in life will be celebrated for his extraordinary generosity in death.

Loving Father, as Christ loved me and selflessly gave His life for me, may I also pass this generous love onto others as a way to say thank you to You. Fill me with Your love, compassion, and grace. Amen

The Color Purple

 “They clothed him in a purple cloak and twisted together a crown of thorns." ~ Mark 15:17

When a grenade landed at Duane’s feet during the Korean War, he hurled himself on it without hesitation. The bomb lifted him off the ground. He sustained severe shrapnel wounds throughout the lower part of his body. But miraculously, Duane survived – as did all six fellow squad members whose lives he had saved.

The army sent him home with a Purple Heart medal. It rested in a beautiful walnut box, representing bloodshed in the call of duty. More notably, it symbolized phenomenal courage and “extraordinary fidelity to fellow service members.”

Designed by President George Washington himself in 1782, it featured a heart of purple cloth, or silk edged with narrow lace or binding. It wasn’t until 150 years later that the award was redesigned and named the Purple Heart.

Famous recipients include actors, writers, athletes, and even service animals. JFK is the only President with a Purple Heart.

Perhaps the Bible offers a clue to the color’s significance.

Its rich, vivid hue dates back to ancient Rome when purple dye was extremely rare. Made from the mucus of Murex snails near the Mediterranean Sea, each mollusk produced only a single drop of the necessary fluid. A pound of dye required thousands of mollusks. Because of its rarity and difficulty to produce, purple became the symbol of wealth, royalty, and prestige.

Purple is linked to suffering and resurrection in the New Testament. Roman soldiers clothed Jesus in purple before beating and crucifying Him. For Christians today, the color purple paints a vivid celestial image of His sacrifice and the ultimate victory over death through His resurrection.

His willingness to endure suffering for our redemption is a powerful reminder of His love and faithfulness. Further, it serves as a reminder of our eternal royalty as children of God.

Courageous people like Duane Dewey are called heroes because they do what others wouldn’t dare to do, even at significant personal risk. Almost two million Purple Hearts have been given out over the years since this special decoration was instated, more than half given in World War II.

Being a spiritual warrior sometimes requires courage just as fierce and tenacious as that required for battle. Derived from the old French root “coeur” (meaning “heart”), courage means to take something to heart; to deliberately gain an authentic, integrated sense of self rooted in Christ.

Spiritual courage requires us to turn our eyes to God and not to the worries and troubles of this world. When we shift our focus and trust to Him, we gather strength and gain self-confidence. The more deeply we feel a closeness with God, the more fearless we become.

Lord, help us prepare today for the continual battle against evil and wickedness. Teach us not to cower in fear or be anxious about the future. Inside each one of us is a Spiritual Warrior armed by faith and waiting to be fully employed by You to further Your Kingdom. Amen

“God is Nigh”

 “Greater love has no one than this, that they lay down their life for their friends." ~ John 15:13

Today will end too soon, a welcome pause to another holiday. As evening casts her dusky shadow, when the wind becomes quiet and peaceful, the time for joyful reflection will arrive. Every day, rain or shine, blizzard or heat, active-duty volunteers stand at attention near the flagpole at the WWII Memorial not far from the White House.

Sharply clad in a WWI Army uniform, he wore the unique headgear of the Army’s 93^rd Infantry Division who were assigned to the blue-helmeted French army in the European theatre. With a polished bugle tucked under his arm, he reverently faced the memorial and silently waited.

Promptly at 5 p.m., he snapped the bugle to his lips and played the mournful, bugle tune “Taps.” Everything in our Nation’s Capital seemed to go quiet for a minute.

Before walking away, he respectfully saluted “Old Glory.

Recognized throughout America, the minute of “Taps” crosses all racial, religious, societal, and gender boundaries. It simply represents the character of an American GI: profound in their selflessness, strength and dedication to the ideals of freedom.

There are no "official" words to “Taps,” but the most popular lyrics are as follows:

“Day is done, gone the sun,

From the hills, from the lake, from the skies.

All is well, safely rest, God is nigh (near).”

Both eloquent and haunting, “Taps” originally began during the Civil War that called soldiers to rest from their efforts and extinguish all lights. The music of its 24 notes became the Army’s official bugle call after the war but was not given the name “Taps” until 1874.

It was played for the first time at the military funeral for a Union cannoneer killed in action. The commanding officer decided the bugle call would be safer than the usual firing of three rifle volleys over the soldier’s grave, a move which could confuse the nearby enemy as an attack. Since then, “Taps” has become part of U.S. military funerals to honor for those who wore our nation’s uniform.

“Taps” is played to honor both the living and dead military community. Veterans Day salutes all who have served; Memorial Day honors those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

But we should remember them in our prayers and gratitude EVERY day. Every new day presents an opportunity to give thanks for those Americans who’ve given part of themselves to serve our nation. Every day offers another chance to remember the great responsibility of defending our homeland that they accepted. Every day reminds us that service to our country is not just a sacrifice made by the soldier, marine, sailor, pilot, or guard - but of his or her entire family.

God bless you all.

Gracious Lord, today we pray for those who serve and have served our military for the cause of freedom. May their sacrifice inspire in us the selfless love of Your Son, Jesus. Bless the families of our troops and fill them with Your strength and peace. Amen

The Doves of War

 “The Lord’s faithful promises are your armor and protection.” ~ Psalm 91:4

It was December 1941; America’s isolation from war just ended. For the young men from a little church in the tiny town of Seadrift, Texas, something truly miraculous was about to happen.

When World War II began, fifty-two men (one-fifth of the village’s entire population), joined the service to defend both the United States and our allies from the Axis powers. They served in combat divisions in every WWII theatre. Every branch of the military was represented.

Pastor Robert Caddell, along with the mothers, wives, and those too old and too young to enlist in the military, started a prayer meeting every Tuesday at 10:00 am. The weekly prayer meetings quickly turned into daily prayer meetings.

Families brought pictures of those men to the church where they were placed in a simple frame and hung on the wall. The collage of photos helped everyone remember the names of those currently serving.

The parishioners, including the children, drew comfort from the 91^st Psalm, reading it aloud at each meeting. It reminded them that God was ultimately in control of the situation and the circumstances of every person involved in the war effort.

Mothers and fathers prayed for their sons, wives for their husbands, brothers and sisters for their siblings, and thus the name, Seadrift Intercessors. Some participated in D-Day, the rescue of the Philippines, and island hopping across the Pacific Ocean. Heartbreaking rumors and stories surfaced about the conditions of war, but that only strengthened their resolve to fervently continue praying.

Take, for example, the Gaines brothers - Lonnie and Ora, whose young faces smiled from the prayer collage. Lonnie's ship had one of the most heart-rending jobs in the Pacific - searching for survivors of ships sunk in battle. Prayer did see him through. "We never lost a man off our ship," he said, "but we came damned close."

Meanwhile, his brother was on a huge tugboat that sank quickly off the Alaskan coast. Seadrift intercessors were praying for him that day too. They all managed to escape the frigid North Pacific waters unharmed. “God spared our lives that day,” he said. “It’s the only reason we survived.”

When Germany surrendered and Japan was defeated, every Seadrift soldier returned home alive and uninjured, even though hundreds of thousands of Americans were killed on those battlefronts.

The little church continues its prayer mission to this day. The picture collage still hangs on the church’s wall in Seadrift, reminding them that God still hears and answers prayer.

Men from this same church served courageously in every major military conflict since then: Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf Wars, and the Liberation of Iraq and Afghanistan. Each time, the church prayed. God responded. And they all came back home safely.

Lord, I come to You today, grateful for the privilege of praying for others. I've been the recipient of others' prayers so often; I know how powerful intercessory prayer can be. Through your name, I pray with confidence knowing that You will hear me. Amen

Wedding Day

 “Two are better than one because if either falls, one can help the other up." ~ Ecclesiastes 4:9

Emily arrived at the church early. Soon people would trickle in, find their seats, and ready their hearts for the simple but faithful ceremony. As she waited near the cross for him to arrive, Emily absorbed the solitude for reflection.

She was to be married today; her life was about to change. She dreamt of this day since childhood; a typical “Knight-in-the-Shining-Armor-on-an-Ivory-Stallion” dream. She saw herself as a princess, the apple of her parents’ eyes. She pictured herself growing up, as a young teen, the heartthrob of her high school. Every boy wanted her and every girl wanted to be like her.

She recalled graduation, now more independent, her beauty now accentuated with maturity and a dollop of innocence for good measure. She loved life and she met the love of her life. Their eyes captured the moment they met as if the universe had introduced two souls already betrothed.

She’d always been a happy person, a fortunate young human, but this new love broadened her gratefulness beyond her grandest expectations. Oh, the snowfall wasn’t whiter, the moon wasn’t larger, and the rain was still annoying. But Emily enjoyed a snowfall ballet more, she started loving the moon as much as she adored the sun and learned to cherish a warm summer rain.

She was in love.

Their wedding was to be a celebration of love - for each other and for all those who came to share it with them, reaffirming the bond that God had already blessed. A marriage not of externality - not of family, religion nor finance - yet a bond between two souls that had a reality only the two of them could see.

Emily smiled remembering his touch. She thought of him hugging her from behind as she washed dishes in the kitchen. She remembered grumbling under her breath when he did those little irritating things. Her life hung on his whispered sweet nothings. She adored his tickling her, playing games with her, just sitting there with her in total silence, being near her, following her from room to room. Proud that her soldier husband had chosen to serve his country courageously.

She was marrying her best friend – a nuptial so deep and so strong that each would sacrifice for the other. They enjoyed so many things in common, yet respected enough differences to keep things interesting, admiring each other with the same sense of awe… and mystery… and humor… that they’d had while dating.

She remembered all this and she wept… trying to weep it all out before the others arrived. This was to be her wedding day… this was his funeral.

Almighty Lord, we lift military spouses in solemn prayer. Bless them with an abundance of courage and fill them with comfort. Surround them with community to stave off feelings of loneliness. We pray they will feel Your presence and be reassured that You are with them. Amen

Veteran's Day to Remember

 “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called God’s children.”  ~ Matthew 5:7

A sudden bump as the 747’s tires kissed the tarmac told him the 12-hour flight from Shanghai was almost over. Once the jumbo jet parked safely at its arrival gate, Daren readied himself for the hike to the parking structure. It had been an exhausting flight... an even longer week. 

He grabbed his carry-on, bid farewell to the crew, and raced through the terminal to see how fast he could exit the airport and get home to his family.  Along the way, Daren couldn’t help but notice a group of camo-clad soldiers heading to their gate. “God be with them,” he thought.

As the soldiers passed, almost everyone waved and cheered. When Daren saw the soldiers being honored and applauded, he stopped and clapped too. 

It touched him, deeply! These unsung heroes would soon be putting their lives at great risk so that people like him could go to school, work, church, and home without fear.

Just when he thought he couldn’t be more proud or patriotic, a young girl not more than 5 years old ran up to one of the soldiers. He kneeled and greeted her warmly. She spoke with conviction, “Sir, will please give my Daddy something from me?”

“I’ll sure try,” he offered politely. “What would you like me to give to him?”

She suddenly grabbed his waist and gave him a hearty bear hug. The sweetness of her act flooded his soul as if he were being embraced by Jesus himself.

The girl’s mother introduced herself. “Our Marine,” she began through tender sobs, “has been overseas for 14 months. Courtney misses him desperately!”  

The remaining soldiers overheard the girl’s appeal and huddled briefly. One pulled out a military-style walkie-talkie and spoke purposefully into it.

A few minutes passed before the young soldier walked back over to the girl, bent down, and said, "I just spoke to your Daddy. He told me to give you this." He then hugged Courtney and lightly kissed her cheek. “Your Daddy told me that he misses you more than anything, that he loves you a gazillion, and that he’s coming home very soon." 

The soldier squared his shoulders and joined his squad in saluting Courtney and her Mom. “God Bless you three!” he said respectfully. As they walked away, the young soldier turned and blew Courtney one last kiss. A single tear fell off his cheek.

Daren watched the incident from a distance. He’d remember this Veteran's Day forever!  No longer would he take for granted the conveniences of an American lifestyle. Never again would he forget the price others had paid for his freedom. He’ll pray for all the heroes separated from their loved ones and for those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.

Dear Lord, today we honor our veterans, men and women who gave their best when called upon to serve and protect their country. Bless them for their unselfish service to preserve our freedoms, our safety, and our country's heritage. Amen

Life Sparklers

"I am the light of the world. Whoever follows Me will never walk in darkness.” ~ John 8:12

The firework that brought me the most childhood joy was the familiar, yet brilliant sparkler. Twirling them around looked like a continuous circuit of light painted in the air. Its afterimage hovered in space like some magical kaleidoscope of blinking lights.

I loved watching the bright starbursts coming from each rod, exploding like mini meteors. They were fleeting glimpses that left a lasting impression, like seeing a shooting star in the evening sky when least expected.

This lyric from our “National Anthem” reminds me of why we launch fireworks each July 4^th: “And the rocket’s red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there.”

More than two centuries ago, Francis Scott Key witnessed a barrage of British rockets exploding over Baltimore Harbor during the battle for Fort McHenry. Despite a night of brutal shelling, Old Glory stood tall.

The British defeat was a turning point in the War of 1812.

I’ve always found those words moving. For even in a moment of fierce battle, any source of light offers us “proof” of what’s enduring and inspiring in life. This year, while we celebrate America’s independence, let’s also recognize those "sparklers" in our lives worthy of illuminating.

If we’re lucky, we have true friends in our lives; connected souls weaved together when our exposed cerebral wires form the right kind of sparks. They help us grow, laugh and think more.

Marriage, or life partnership, is surely the anchor of a meaningful life when grounded in shared values, support, and enduring love so strong that each would willingly sacrifice for the other.

Children or grandchildren carry sparks of us inside them, from the way their eyes twinkle when they laugh to the way they treat others. From children’s eyes come the world’s light, pure joy told in grins and giggles.

The work we do every day - whether or not we go to an office or even get paid to do it - is love made visible - a symbol of our life and values. Work organizes our life around a routine, and it’s a consistent way that we can contribute to our community and the world.

Finally, it’s my faith in our Father that buoys my existence. Our Creator God is the “light of the world.” Love, truth, peace, forgiveness, and happiness cannot co-exist with evil, selfishness, fear, and hatred. So, I choose Him.

Consider ways to celebrate the blessings in your life this July 4^th. Wave sparklers in the yard with friends; toast your marriage; enjoy the delight in children’s eyes, share the shared purpose of a work day well spent. And thank God, the source from whom our blessings of liberty, prosperity, and security flow.

Thank You, Father, for our country’s independence and for the people of faith who helped lay its constitutional framework. You are our deliverer, the God of our strength. We place our trust in You alone. Amen

The Final Salute

 “This woman will be forever remembered for what she’s done.” ~ Matthew 26:13

Paula vividly recalled the drums beating slowly as she walked with her two boys from the Old Post Chapel, behind the horse-drawn caisson carrying her husband’s flag-draped casket.

Struggling to maintain her composure, she stared at his freshly dug grave, the 21-gun salute, Taps. The chaplain handed her a perfectly folded flag. A blur of tributes.

Then a lady stepped forward, a stranger, dressed not in uniform but in a simple black dress. She whispered a few words and pressed a card into Paula’s hands. "If there’s anything you need ..." she assured before melting back into the crowd.

Later Paula would think of her as a comforting, human presence in a sea of starched uniforms and salutes. The stranger was an "Arlington Lady" - one of a small band of volunteers, mainly spouses of retired military officers, who attend every funeral in Arlington National Cemetery.

Their mission is to ensure no soldier, sailor, airman, or coastie is ever buried alone. Paula recalled feeling as though an entire nation grieved with her.

The Gold Star wife later wrestled with how best to honor her late husband. She dug out the lady's card. “This is something I can do,” she thought. “Not just for him, but for every veteran.”

Today, she’s lost count of how many funerals she's attended over the past 30 years. “Eight to 10 Soldiers are buried here daily,” she said. “So, two of us attend 5 funerals a day, regardless of the weather conditions."

Begun in 1948, the group was created when General Hoyt Vandenberg, and his wife, Gladys, noticed that some services had only a military chaplain present. (Often older Soldiers who served in Vietnam, Korea, and World War II who’ve outlived family and friends). Gladys asked her friends to start attending services. Their efforts soon grew into a group of several dozen women.

They’re not to be seen as professional mourners, but rather as a support system for the families. Their role is to represent the service branch to offer condolence, support the family and honor the veteran or service member.

Because they’re all former or current military spouses, they help to put a family face on the funeral service. Their presence reminds us that a grateful nation shares in their loss.

Jesus showed the importance of paying tribute. He rejected His disciples' idea that a woman who anointed Him should have sold the expensive ointment instead, to make better use of the money. Rather, He has called her act a beautiful thing. (Mathew 26:13).

For the heroes who’ve given their lives in service to God and country, please honor them today. We’re the “land of the free” only so long as it remains home to the brave.

Heavenly Father, today we pray with grateful hearts, recognizing the sacrifices of those who serve our country - humbled by their courage, dedication, and selflessness. Thank You for those who’ve answered the call, putting their lives at risk to defend our freedoms and way of life. Amen

America

 “Praise God in song: proclaiming His greatness and giving Him thanks.” ~ Psalm 69:30

The man with a big heart beamed with pride as he heard a Boston children's choir sing for the first time in public, a tune he’d written a few months ago. It was the summer of 1832 when immigration to America was increasing at a notable rate due to political and social upheavals in Europe. As a result, Americans were unsure about whether the union would survive the strain.

Months earlier, Samuel Francis Smith, a 24-year-old theology student who spoke several languages, had been asked to translate some European songs into English for a new hymnal the publisher was compiling. His eyes fell on a German song entitled "God Bless Our Native Land."

Inspired by a desire to create a national hymn that would allow the American people to praise God for our beautiful landscapes and our freedom to worship the Pilgrims sought in the new world. He penned these lines on a scrap of paper in less than 30 minutes, using the same melody as that of the century-old British national anthem, “God Save The Queen.”

The song, simply titled "America," would eventually be better known by its first few words:

"My Country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing: Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim's pride, From every mountainside, let freedom ring!”

A tribute to our homeland, it prays reverence to God and pleads for His continued guidance. This song nearly sings itself – unites our minds and hearts, and in a matter of minutes transports us to a lofty place in another time.

Smith later declared that he had not intentionally tried to write a patriotic song, but it soon took on a life of its own. It served as our de facto national anthem until “The Star-Spangled Banner” was adopted nearly a century later in 1931.

After graduating from Harvard and the Andover Seminary, Dr. Smith became an influential minister in several New England churches, composing over 150 hymns before his passing in 1985 at the age of 88. Today the song, decidedly easier to sing than the National Anthem, continues to inspire.

As its popularity increased, "America" was accepted for use in public schools and civic ceremonies. When Martin Luther King Jr. gave his famous "I Have a Dream" speech in 1963 from the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to over 200,000 civil rights supporters, the refrain - "Let freedom ring!"- climaxed his historic speech. More recently, Both Presidents Obama and Trump included the song as part of their inauguration celebrations.

Each time Samuel Smith's masterpiece is heard, we should thank our Heavenly Father for all the blessings we enjoy as Americans. Sing it courageously. Sing it proudly, and most of all, sing it with gratitude in your heart.

“Our fathers’ God to thee, Author of liberty, To Thee we sing. Long may our land be bright, with freedom’s holy light, protect us by Thy might, Great God our King! ~ America, Verse 4 by Samuel Francis Smith

Angels in Blue

 “Take up your cross and follow Me." ~ Luke 9:23

In the sky over Dayton’s airport, six Boeing F/A-18 Super Hornets fly in formation so close together they appear to be one. For more than 75 years, the Navy’s Blue Angels have been defying gravity with aerial precision while inspiring a culture of excellence and service to country.

The Top Gun stereotype was born on the back of a motorcycle when a secretive naval aviation school made its Hollywood debut in 1986. But the real pilots are anything but “mavericks.” These highly-skilled men and women describe themselves using 3 words – humble, reliable, and credible.  

This school doesn’t accept aviators with an ego, or those who fly with a death wish. They don’t fly to break the rules, but to define them for the rest of the fleet. Some will go on to become elite members of the Blue Angels demonstration team.

Blue Angel pilots place their lives in the hands of their team members, trusting that the lead pilot is traveling at precisely the correct speed and trajectory. Wing pilots surrender any desire to switch directions or question their leader’s path. Instead, they get in formation and follow precisely. Their lives are also in the hands of the crew that checked their engines and landing gear, ensuring that everything works the way it should! 

During performances, Blue Angels maneuver as close as 18 inches apart while flying at near Mach 1 700 mph speeds. Achieving this level of trust isn’t easy, sharing a set of common values that bind them together in life and death!

Although they routinely pull 7 Gs and sometimes more, they cannot wear compression suits due to the nature of their job. G-suits suits would interfere with their ability to control the flight stick that moves them into tight formations. 

The Blue Angels team puts in thousands of practice hours together to achieve flawless performances. Every pilot is accountable for keeping their skills up to date. There are no spare pilots - a substitute would never get enough time in the formation to do so safely.

The death of 27 Blue Angel pilots since 1946 in training or airshows serves as a constant reminder of the danger that they face every time they take to the sky. High-performance standards are not optional; they are a survival necessity.

It’s no different for us Christians. His path was one of self-denial and suffering, which can be hard to follow. But to be effective disciples, two things stand out immediately: understanding and obeying His teaching and following His example. We are invited to put aside selfish desires and pick up spiritual burdens daily – being humble, certain, and deliberate. And finally … staying close enough that we can appear with Christ as one.  

Father God, I am a work in progress. My spiritual transformation will take the rest of my life. Please guide me on a path of righteousness, according to Your will and glory. Shape me, mold me, use me and fill me each day to become more like You. Amen