Broadcast
Memorial Day 2024
Proverbs 14:34
05/27/2024
34 Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a
reproach to any people. (ESV)
Today this nation takes time to remember those paid the
ultimate price while defending our freedoms. Thomas Jefferson,
the third president of the United States wrote: ``The tree of
liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of
patriots and tyrants.'' Ever since the first patriots took up
arms to secure our liberties, we have honored the memories of
those who refreshed the tree of liberty with their blood.
King Solomon wrote: ``Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin
is a reproach to any people.'' We pray, therefore, for righteous
leaders and faithful citizens who place the good of their
neighbors over personal gain. When our leaders are moral and
just, the entire nation is blessed. When our leaders seek their
own good over others, we all suffer. Therefore we pray for this
nation, remembering those who sacrificed themselves that others
may live in freedom.
Lord of our Land and Life, Over two centuries ago,
shortly before the British hanged him, the American
hero Nathan Hale said he regretted he had only one life
to lose for his country. Today we can see things Hale
could not: we see America's flag, her history, and the
democratic truths upon which she has been built. We
give thanks that our country remains: ``One nation
under God.'' Knowing that, we proudly echo his words in
saying, ``I have only one life to invest in my
country.'' The Bible says doing right exalts a nation
and sin disgraces her. For that reason, we pray for
America, right or wrong. When America is right, dear
Lord, keep her right. Allow the good people, the God-
fearing people of America to loyally continue their
vigilance and struggle for those things which are
pleasing to You. And, if our nation ever wanders or
goes wrong, dear Lord, turn her and gently bring her
back onto the path You would have her walk. In Jesus'
name, we pray. Amen.