"Memorial Day, 2010"

I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone— for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. (1 Timothy 2:1-4 NIV).

I just got home from church and began to think about exactly what I wanted to write about tomorrow, which is Memorial Day. I was reminded of the verse I have chosen for us today in Sunday School. It is a very clear command from the Apostle Paul for all believers to pray for “all those in authority.” That thought took me down one path for a few moments, but I really just didn’t feel a need to spend any time in that area. Don’t misunderstand. It is vital that we pray for our leadership. These are perilous times and demand the wisdom and direction of God if our nation is to survive. However, that being said, I felt a need to be a little more basic in my thoughts today.

So, let me begin with a question: Have you ever thought about the difference between forgetting and remembering? “Remembering” is a conscious choice. It involves an effort on my part to pull from my memory the thoughts and feelings previously deposited there through the many experiences of my past. “Forgetting.” well, that one is really easy. That just happens. I fail to send that birthday card to my friend, or I let the appointment with the doctor slip by. It happens more frequently than I’d like! The real key on this Memorial Day is in the remembering and that necessitates that I figure out how to stop forgetting? Again, it is a simple answer. We simply make that conscious effort to remember. As is true with all the other stuff I need to remember, I employ date books and calendars, to-do lists, and sticky notes all help prompt me to bring to mind the things I need to do.

So here is my thought for you today. Memorial Day is a conscious effort by our government to help us remember and honor those who fought and died for our country lest we forget the great price of our freedom. So, we have a national holiday. And we are encouraged to pause and remember them. Additionally we ought to also remember those who currently serve in our armed forces, and those who lead our country. Take a few moments in between the family gathering or celebration to pray for the provision of their physical, mental, emotional and spiritual needs. Pray for their protection, and ask God to bless their loved ones here at home.

Some of you are reading this and live outside of the U.S. Regardless of where you are, take a moment to pray for those who lead your nation. Ask God to give wisdom and direction to those in authority. Thank Him for the blessings you have around you. Really, we need to do this more than just on one special day every year. We need to let every day be a memorial day. Are you forgetting to pray? Be intentional about your remembering!