Memorial Day

yesterday was the first time i have gone to the local memorial day parade. for as small as a town as i live in the parade is huge and draws people from all over the state. the princess kitty and hubby marched with her soccer team and the silent prince and i met up with two members of my church who were watching in order to see their vietnam vet march.

i was asked to to the invocation at the ceremony afterwards. (i almost did the invocation and the benediction, but the other pastor was there.)

i always find this task somewhat daunting, not because i'm out in public, but because i really want what i say to be meaningful.

this was my prayer:

Let us pray.
Oh God as we gather to celebrate this beautiful day, to enjoy a parade, and spend time with family and friends may we also pause to remember...

As we gather to remember all those we have died serving this country let us also be reminded of your steadfast love, your wondrous spirit, and your abundant gifts of grace and freedom.

As we gather to remember let us also gather in gratitude for all those who have fallen and in gratitude of the promise that you do not leave any of us behind, but collect us up into your arms.

As we gather to remember their sacrifice let us also remember your sacrifice so that we are encouraged to be generous towards others with our gifts.

As we gather to remember let us also gather to forget war and look to you for true and lasting peace.

We pray this in your holy name. Amen.

God's peace y'all and many thanks to all those who have served in the military and those who are serving now.