Just the Start of Summer?

Is Memorial Day just the start of summer – albeit a start which is unofficial, three weeks before the solstice?  Surely many of us gladly celebrate the last weekend in May as a three day splurge of relaxation, recreation and feasting (did someone say “barbeque”?)

It is always good to go to the root of things, and the root of Memorial Day is found in remembering the dead who served in the military service for our country.  Earlier this month was Armed Forces Day when we remember and give thanks for those who serve their country and their families.

It will be good this week to think about the sacrifices that have been made – especially those who laid down their lives for us.  Our lives can be improved by such thoughts and prayers.  Memorial Day could be not only the start of summer, but the start of a change of heart for our nation.  I would like to offer you this prayer that comes from the great soldier and first President of our country, George Washington:

Almighty God, we make our earnest prayer that Thou wilt keep the United States in Thy holy protection, that Thou wilt incline the hearts of the citizens to cultivate a spirit of subordination and obedience to government, and entertain a brotherly affection and love for one another and for their fellow citizens of the United States at large.

And finally that Thou wilt most graciously be pleased to dispose us all to do justice, to love mercy, and to demean ourselves with that charity, humility and pacific temper of mind which were the characteristics of the Divine Author of our blessed religion, and without an humble imitation of whose example in these things, we can never hope to be a happy nation.

Grant our supplications, we beseech Thee, through Jesus Christ our Lord.  Amen.

Let Memorial Day be a day of thanksgiving.

Your Brother in Christ,

Christopher

The Rev. Christopher P. Leighton

Rector