Memorial Day

I know Memorial Day is a day to commemorate U.S. soliders that have died while in military service, but it's just as important to remember those that are serving now. It's also important to remember the families of these men and women, because they're the ones whose lives are most effected by their loved ones' service to our country.

This prayer by an unknown author encompasses all that are impacted by military service:

Dear Heavenly Father,

As we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice of death for our freedom, we think of how they have followed in the footsteps of Your Son and our Savior, Jesus Christ.

Please hold our service men and women in your strong arms. Cover them with your sheltering grace and presence as they stand in the gap for our protection.

We also remember the families of our troops and ask for your blessings to fill their homes and your peace, provision and strength to fill their lives.

May the members of our armed forces be filled with courage to face each day and may they trust in the Lord's mighty power to accomplish each task. Let our military brothers and sisters feel our love and support.

In the name of Jesus,
Amen

Kent didn't die in service to our country, but, like a lot of people that visit the graves of their deceased relatives on this day, we did too. We cleaned and dried his head marker and then trimmed the grass around it before leaving beautiful Irises of assorted colors from his parents' garden in the vase.