Next Monday, May 30, 2011 will be memorial day and it is the day we honor and pay tribute to all of our U.S. Soldiers who died while in the military service. It started out after the civil war and was known as Decoration Day to honor the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the American Civil War. It was later changed to honor all U. S. Soldiers who died while serving in the military service. Originally families visited the graves of loved ones but it has now changed to a family get together, picnics, fireworks, shopping, and many kinds of other festive activities. It is a federal holiday and yes, there are many special celebrations to honor those U.S. Servicemen. I think it so neat to be a part of those celebrations honoring those servicemen or just to go watch. To see those small U. S. flags placed on the graves, the prayers of thanksgiving, and taps for those who gave their lives always brings goose bumps and tears to my eyes. I know the country we live in and the many freedoms we enjoy had a high cost for many. I hope we never forget. I also hope we never forget the great price Jesus Christ paid on the cross, (1 John 1:7& 2:25, 3:1)for our freedom and the way He provided for us to be in good standing before God, (Galatians 5:1, Ephesians 1:3&4, Jude 1:24). See you in Church next Sunday. Brother J