Say a prayer of thanks this Memorial Day!

In May of 1868, General John Logan first proclaimed Memorial Day as a day to remember those who had died in our nation's service.  By 1890 many individual states had declared Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, a holiday.  In 1971, Congress passed the National Holiday Act which included Memorial Day as a national holiday and an annual three day weekend for federal employees.

My Confession
I keep forgetting the ultimate purpose of Memorial Day is to remember those who have died in service to our country.  I wonder if maybe people in our congregation also forget.  This three day weekend is busy and filled with so much fun, family, and travel.

Prayer of Remembrance
On Sunday we will say a special prayer of remembrance for those who have died serving our country--thanking God for their service and sacrifice.  Maybe, you could remember to say a similar prayer on Memorial Day.  It is such a privilege to live in a free and prosperous nation.  This is an incredible gift of God for us!

Taylor Morris
This reminds me to pray also for Taylor Morris, who is a friend to many in our congregation.  Taylor was was seriously injured in Afganistan recently when he stepped on an IED during a Green Beret Patrol.  He is the grandson of Sid Morris, the son of Dan and Julie Morris and his sister Claire often attends our 11:01 service.