My Friends,Let us not take for granted the day off tomorrow as an excuse for a long weekend and not remember the reason for this day off. You see we are creatures who seem to love to take long weekends off and rest or spend time at the beach, mountains, on the water or on the links.We must not forget the reason for this day off. We need to stop and take time to remember those who gave it all for our freedom, privilages and rights as Americans.Folks, this country did not become a great place, without our troops fighting for our freedom.Folks, I have been to and seen first hand the restrictions placed on people by their government. I was in southern Siberia in 04. Let me tell you that our freedom is not free.While in Siberia, we were followed by the military with AK47's on their arms the whole time that we were there. Russia may say that it is free now, since the fall of communism. It may be in the large cities and places that the media may see. It is NOT this way in other areas of Russia, I have seen this too much firsthand to think otherwise. We had the power cut on our hotel at night and left in the pitch darkness, while we heard the rat a tat tat of AK47's in the parking lot, they were trying to scare us into leaving. You see we were American missionaries, tryng to spread the Gospel in their town.Having said this, my friends, you can understand why I am so passionate on celebrating and remembering our fallen protectors of freedom that we enjoy so much and take for granted so often.I SALUTE YOU, MY MILITARY.A Prayer for our Military on Memorial Day;Oh Heavenly Father,We come to you today in rememberance of those who gave it all for our freedoms and liberties in this country, and our allies across your world.As we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom, we think of how they have followed in the footsteps of your son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Please hold our military in your strong arms. Cover them with your sheltering grace, love and presence as they stand on the front line for our protection.Let us remember the families of our troops, and ask that your blessings to fill their homes and your peace, provision and strength to fill their lives.May the members of our armed forces be filled with courage to face each day and may they trust in the Lord's mighty power to accomplish each task. Let our military feel our love and support.In the mighty name of Jesus, our Lord and Savior, Amen, Amen and Amen!Glory to God!Pastor Ken SharpeRacers Reunion Chaplain