The nation which forgets its defenders will be itself forgotten. 
Calvin Coolidge

Memorial Day was established by the U.S. Congress on May 30, 1868 to honor U.S. soldiers who died in the Civil War.  It has become a time to honor men and women who have given their lives in all armed conflicts found by U.S. forces. It is a time for us to remember that 'Freedom isn't Free'. 
 
The Apostle Paul urges us to pray for our governmental leaders and all who are in authority.  Decisions affecting millions rest in their hands.  
 
I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone- for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth.  1 Timothy 2:1-4
 
Pray for the men and women who serve you and me by serving in the armed forces.  Their sacrifices are many and their work is hard.  Pray for their safety and their effectiveness.
 
Pray for their families and friends who miss them every moment, who worry about their safety and long for their return. 
 
Pray for the people of our country, that we may step up to bat and shoulder the responsibilities that are ours - that of being a good citizen, informed, honest, hard-working and loyal.
 
Consider this challenge from President Lincoln's address at the memorial at Gettysburg at the end of the Civil War.
 
"It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us- that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion; that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain; that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom; and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
 
              May God bless us everyone and may God bless America.
 
In service to God and country,
Pastor Bob and Marion Rieth