As I write this, I am sitting on my patio on a lovely May morning in a quiet neighborhood. I hear the distant rumble of jet engines from the local airport, but instead of carrying weapons that sow destruction, these jets are carrying people to destinations of their own choosing.

While I am far from rich by American standards, I have luxuries in my life that would be the envy of much, if not most, of the world. The fact that I can sit in peace and have the time and a place to write this post is a blessing for which I should always be grateful, and I chose to be so.

I also have freedom in my life that much of the world would also envy. One only need to talk to those who have emigrated to the United States to get a better understanding of conditions elsewhere.

I have freedom to criticize those in power in my country, I have the freedom to worship God openly and in a manner consistent with my understanding of what God wants. I have the freedom to pursue work that I find rewarding and that I enjoy. There are many other freedoms that could be listed.

This level of freedom is another blessing for which I chose to be grateful.

But I am reminded that these blessings, which ultimately come from God, were purchased by those who have given their lives to protect those freedoms. It is these that we remember on Memorial Day.

Yesterday I overheard a conversation in a shop where a veteran announced that it is inappropriate to say “Happy Memorial Day.” I agree. No-one should be happy about the sacrifices that needed to be made to assure our freedom.

So, I will say, “Have a meaningful Memorial Day.” Let us all be grateful for the freedom we have and pray for those who currently serve in uniform and pray for our leaders as they work to protect our country from those who would seek to destroy it. Let us also pray for the families that have lost loved ones in the service of our country.

In the last few years I have started to verbally thank those in uniform who are actively engaged in protecting us, including military personnel, border patrol, police officers, and firemen. Can I encourage you to do the same?

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