2006-05-29 - Memorial Day

On this Memorial Day weekend in the US, I would like to express thanks to God for those who in Christlike spirit of sacrifice, give their lives (sometimes literally, others by forfeiting a normal free life) for the freedom of others - including us. We wouldn't be able to send these devotionals freely unless 230 years ago, a ragtag bunch of soldiers fought a war for independence.

In honor of those who serve to keep the peace, and go to war when needed to preserve or secure freedom - both in civilian and military service - we present these passages that relate to "America's finest," which cover all branches of the military - as well as police agencies. To all of you who serve the cause of justice, peace and freedom in any capacity - from "beat cop" to soldier to chaplain - THANK YOU from the bottom of our hearts.

Romans 13:1 Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. ² Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. ³ For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. ⁴ For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. ⁵ Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God's servants, who give their full time to governing. ⁷ Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.

Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called sons of God

Comments or Questions,
Jan

cfdevjan@aol.com
http://www.cfdevotionals.org