There is, perhaps, something good that can come from a rainy Memorial Day although beachgoers and picnickers may not think so. It’ can be a good day to take stock of who we are, especially as we head into the June and July commemorations and celebration of our 250th anniversary as a Nation. Taking time today to watch a least one or two segments of Ken Burns’ production “The American Revolution” is a good way to begin.
We think of Memorial Day in terms of our war dead in recent years, but we should look at the incredible sacrifices the men and women made during the Revolution. Unlike the way we think of war today using bombs and technology to kill or destroy, the War for Independence was extremely close. You saw the faces of soldiers you killed.
In the War for Independence, you were defending your home turf, fending off British and those poor conscripted Hessians, who probably wondered what on earth they were doing here on this strange continent fighting for a king who no longer spoke German. Our soil is stained with the blood of those who fought for liberty. On this Memorial Day we should take more than a minute to remember how great their sacrifices were.
Prayer for the Day
Forgetting the purpose of the day we commemorate,
We find ourselves miffed at the weather, O God;
Having intended to engage in summer activities,
We forget that seasons are not marked by our desires.
May we remember those who came before us,
Living to honor their memories by establishing justice for all.
In the name of the One who accompanies us in our journey,
Even Christ Jesus our Lord, Amne.
Thoughts for the Day
W# are here surrounded with Regulars and no way to make our escape except over the North River to the Jerseys… I hope we shall conquer our enemies through the divine assistance. … Love to you and all the children.
Addison Richardson, letter to his wife November 14, 1776
We are now without money in our treasury, powder in our magazines, arms in our stores. . . . I have often thought how much happier I should have been if, instead of accepting a command under such circumstances, I had taken my musket upon my shoulder & entered the ranks
Geo. Washington, Letter to aide Joseph Reed, January 14, 1776
I have done what is just and right; do not leave me to my oppressors.
Guarantee your servant’s well-being; do not let the godless oppress me.
My eyes fail from watching for your salvation,
And for the fulfillment of your righteous promise
Psalm 119: 121-23