Memorial Day

I had a very patriotic/moving moment yesterday afternoon. I was at the ACC Championship Baseball game at the Durham Bulls Stadium with Benjamin, Wesley, and Anna Grace. In the 6th inning a woman soldier came out and sang, "God bless America." I am not sure if it was the soldier's uniform, the beauty of the ominous/eerie cloud-filled sky, her voice, three of my kids by my side with hands on their hearts, the American flag flapping in the wind, the special occasion of Memorial Day, being exhausted from teaching at church, America's favorite past time of baseball, and/or my hopes and prayers for our country, but it all kind of collided and I was deeply moved and prayerful for our country.

She added the unique introduction that we don't typically hear when people sing America's signature song. The prayerful part of the lyrics, I believe, frame the song more powerfully. I thought you might enjoy seeing or even singing these words this morning so I have included the song below. As you enjoy this day and week, in your own way, ask God to bless America and give thanks for those who have served and still serve to make this country the land of the free.


While the storm clouds gather far across the sea, let us swear allegiance to a land that's free, let us all be grateful for a land so fair, as we raise our voices in a solemn prayer.

God Bless America, Land that I love. Stand beside her, and guide her thru the night with a light from above. From the mountains, to the prairies, to the oceans, white with foam, God bless America, my home sweet home.