Thankful Thursday - America's Heroes

This week, we saw the movie, Midway.  As I watched the battles between the American and Japanese fighting forces, I thanked God for our brave military members.  I'm grateful for those in the past as well as for the current members.  These brave souls were, and are, willing to lay down their lives for you and me.  Their commitment and courage are to be commended.   Every time we see a veteran, we say, "Thank you for your service." 

Jem particularly enjoyed the vintage airplanes in the movie, since he's the curator of a local warbird museum.  Both before and after, he shared volumes of information with me about the battle and the men portrayed, such as Nimitz and Doolittle. (He's not only my personal rabbi, but is also my own personal encyclopedia.) He was honored to meet Dick Cole, the last living member of the Doolittle Raiders.  I remember how excited he was to have his picture made with him that day.  Dick Cole was Jimmy Doolittle's co-pilot, and he passed away in 2018.
 

two American heroes

For Veterans Day, we attended an event honoring our local veterans.  Jem walked with the Navy vets in the parade.  It was raining, so the turnout was light, but it was a good show of support for these brave men and women.  Sorry for the blurry photos, but I was running to get ahead of the parade, plus it was drizzling rain.

That's Jem in the red t-shirt and denim jacket

God bless our veterans, and God bless the mothers and fathers who support and encourage their sons and daughters in their service to our country.  It's not easy to do.  But like Jem says, "Somebody's got to do it."  So, I'm thankful for the parents, the spouses, and the children of those who serve.  They should also be recognized and commended.  Speaking of that, I encourage you to read and share the book I recommended recently, 52 Weekly Devotions for Families Called to Serve.  The book is a blessing and a great resource for parents and grandparents. 

What are you thankful for this week, Gail-Friends?  I'd love to hear about your American heroes.

P.S.  I'll have a big announcement next week, so be sure to stop back by on Thursday.

Pray for America - Day 8

This post is part of a 31 day series from the American Prayer Initiative
You can sign up at the link and have the prayers sent to you daily in your
 e-mail box.  I encourage you to join us in praying daily for America
up through the general election on November 6, 2012.

The Common Defense

Suggested Scriptural references ... The L-rd is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My G-d, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold. Psalm 18:2  The L-rd is good, A stronghold in the day of trouble; and He knows those who trust in Him.  Nahum 1:7

Suggested prayers ... We ask for Your protection against all enemies foreign and domestic, seen and unseen, praying for Your abundant protection and provision for those in overt or covert service and their families. Receive our profound thanks, L-rd, for those who have given their lives in service to America, and for their families.  We pray for your deepest blessings upon the families of those who have paid the highest price for the welfare and freedom of others.  We ask You to give new life and vision to those who have lost limb or function in service to our country.  We ask for hope, courage, strength and faith for each and every one. We pray for those who voluntarily put on the uniform of America’s Armed Forces and serve both at home and abroad.  L-rd we ask you to bless their families and keep them brave, strong and loyal to their members in uniform. We do feel the alarm of war, O G-d.  Please hear our prayer for protection over the men and women who serve in our military.  Give them Your peace and comfort, and be near to their families.  Guard their hearts and motives as they defend our land. Yes, Father, I agree and  offer these prayers in the name of Yeshua Ha-Mashiach. Amain.