Freedom is a gift easily taken for granted. We come and go, doing what we need and want, without a thought…running to the store for a gallon of milk, worshipping at church, boating at the lake or traveling to see family. Our choices exist because we have this gift of freedom. Around the world, many do not have the same option. Being aware of our gift, we can cultivate gratitude.
Many before us fought to secure and maintain our freedom. Today, many more serve to preserve it. As we head into the 4th of July weekend, this fact hits very close to home. My son leaves next week for three months of advanced training as part of his service in the Army Reserves. He is sacrificing his time and a semester of school in service to our country.
The time away will be real.
The training will be rigorous.
He serves for our freedom.
My niece will be married two years next week and her husband deploys just days before they celebrate this anniversary. He is scheduled for a nine month tour in Afghanistan.
The miles will be difficult.
The danger will be real.
He serves for our freedom.
Our country celebrates 241 years of independence this week. Many have served our country. Lives have been and will be put into jeopardy to maintain the freedoms we enjoy today. As you celebrate this week, please stop and pray for all the soldiers and their families who are currently blessing us with their service. If you know a family, personally, drop them a note—let them know they are in your thoughts and are being prayed for. A little gratitude goes a long way.
Their sacrifice is real.
Our encouragement matters.
And remember, our gift of freedom is never really free.
1 Comment
Peggy B
July 3, 2017 at 9:08 amStacee: How true it is that we go about our daily lives without thinking about all the sacrifices that have been made for us to live in this nation so freely! Our prayers go up for protection of our grandson and grandson-in-law. Love our whole family very much!