My husband is giving my sister and her husband’s family a tour of the United States Air Force Academy when that familiar crackle comes on loud speaker. When that happens, you know to turn towards the nearest flag and put hand to heart. The drum roll begins and cadets everywhere move from parade rest to salute. My man does the same.
Old Glory comes down right along with my tears.
I cry thankful tears of gladness and awe of being a part of something bigger than me.
It’s this thought that’s rolling through my head as I watch my beautiful sister point out things about this jet and that jet to her two year old son. He just wonders why he can’t sit in the cockpit.
“They’re all sealed up, baby,” says my sister. “We can only look at them and play underneath them.”
She tells him this many {many} times before he gives up and runs all happy underneath. I think of the verse:
Show me the wonders of your great love,
you who save by your right hand
those who take refuge in you from their foes.
Keep me as the apple of your eye;
hide me in the shadow of your wings…
Psalm 17:7-8
We are hidden in His shadow under His wings. We are covered from all sides, sheltered and protected. His wondrous love makes it so.
On this Fourth of July, may you say a prayer of protection and thanks for our military and their families. May you even cry a little knowing you are chosen and a part of something bigger than you.
And may you feel rest in the shelter, believing those wings provide you plenty of room to breathe and play as you drink in freedom and cling to Grace.
Do you mind if I share something that I wrote about a recent experience with you? I think it’s very appropriate considering it’s the Fourth of July. Here it is:
Moms piled their kids in their minivans, tiny American flags in hand. Farmers threw their American flags in the back of their pick-up trucks. Military veterans put on their uniforms. News truck from all the local news stations drove into town, positioning their cameras to get the best shot. Kids got out their magic markers and glitter to create posters. All these preparations were being made in my hometown this week to welcome home a local Marine. But, instead of walking off an airplane to his homecoming, he was brought home in a flag draped casket.
Thousands of people stood for over two hours along the funeral procession route just to get the chance to show their honor and respect for the fallen soldier. I had the privilege of being one of those people. When the procession drove by, all the people around me went silent. Hands were placed over hearts. Flags proudly held high in the air. Silent prayers whispered. Many tears shed. It was so moving to be able to be a part of that moment. I am so blessed that I was able to do my part in saying, “Welcome home.”
Tay, I know the Marine’s family appreciated your attendance and support. Thank you for doing more than your part to honor him!
Oh, seeing these pics makes me long for a trip to the Springs to see the Strongs even more!
Well, whatcha waitin’ for? Our front door is always wide open for you, Friend! Love you!
Kristen,
I have spent entirely too long clicking through some of your posts today, and I fully blame you for my dishes still being on my counter, ha! Very encouraging words here!