Memorial Day
This holiday puts us in mind of those Americans who have died in the field of battle over the history of our nation. Many of us have such a one in our extended family circle who we think of on Memorial Day. Just last March, the wreckage of a notable U.S. Ship was discovered at the bottom of the Pacific. It was the remains of the U.S.S. Juneau. This was the ship on which all five Sullivan brothers were serving when it was torpedoed by a Japanese submarine.
The torpedo struck amidships, in an area already damaged by an earlier torpedo strike. The second explosion reached the munitions storage area of the Juneau, blowing it into 3 pieces and sinking it all within 20 seconds. Three of the Sullivan brothers were killed in the initial blast, and the last two died in a life raft, awaiting a rescue that found them too late.
Memorial Day reminds us of the high cost of liberty, and reminds us to continue to pray for those in the military and for those of our own church family currently serving in the armed forces. It is also a good reminder to pray for those of our church who are involved in our own military ministry at Camp Pendleton Marine Base.
Psalm 31:2, Bow down thine ear to me; deliver me speedily: be thou my strong rock, for an house of defense to save me.
