Visiting Normandy

 

 

We were vacationing in France last week. We visited the Normandy American Cemetery while we were there. It was a very moving experience. We walked from the visitor center, turned a corner, and there in front of us was a field with almost 9,400 plain white crosses and Stars of David, set in absolutely perfect alignment. Most of the crosses listed the soldier’s name, state, and military unit. Some were inscribed, “Here rests in honored glory a comrade in arms known only to God”.  I have seen pictures of the cemetery before but it doesn’t compare to being there in person. I was filled with an overwhelming sense of the tremendous sacrifice made by our troops in the defense of our country and our allies against the plans of evil men.

 

As we celebrate our Independence Day, let’s give thanks for all those who have sacrificed, whether in war or in peace, in military or other service, to give us the freedoms and opportunities that we have been blessed with.  Let’s also commit to living lives of service to God and country, in whatever big or little way that we may contribute. Finally, let’s not forget that evil remains in the world and that we are called to be vigilant and faithful in our actions and prayers to fight for the cause of God.

 

“Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil. For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”  (Ephesians 6:10-12)