Memorial Day

Flags, red poppies, vacations, parades, Invocations, Benedictions, speeches, moments of silence, patriotic music, decorated graves, all come together as we in the United States and in the cemeteries across Europe remember those who gave their lives in the service our country.  A tradition which dates back to 1868 to commemorate those whose lives were lost in the Civil War, Memorial Day continues strong in its purpose to honor and thank deceased military men and women as well as those serving now, despite the plague of Memorial Day Sales and Bargains.  This day is for those who served and gave their lives, and for those who serve now and may be asked to give their lives, not for the saving a few dollars.  "Not greater love, than to lay down one's life for one's neighbor." (cf. Jn 15:13).  This is what calls us to stop, close shop and take time to reflect and pay tribute.   Let us pray an often neglected verse from America the Beautiful:
O beautiful for heroes proved
In liberating strife.
Who more than self their country loved
And mercy more than life!
America! America!
May God thy gold refine
Till all success be nobleness
And every gain divine!


Bro. Rene