May the Lord of peace Himself give you peace at all times in every way. – 2 Thessalonians 3:16
On May 30, 1868, the first major Memorial Day was observed to honor those who died during the Civil War “in defense of their country during the late rebellion.” Known as “Decoration Day,” five thousand mourners gathered at Arlington National Cemetery to decorate the graves of more than 20,000 Civil War soldiers. General James Garfield also delivered a speech honoring the soldiers. Memorial Day grew in popularity in communities across the country, and the dead from all the different American wars were honored following the First World War. Congress officially declared Memorial Day to be a national holiday in 1971. Take time to thank God for the sacrifice of the brave military men and women who have given their lives for the cause of liberty and justice. Pray for all who are defending the U.S. today.
As the Lord leads, pray with us…
- For wisdom for the secretaries of each branch of the U.S. military and protection for active duty personnel.
- For the defense secretary as he heads the Pentagon and all the generals overseeing commands around the world.
