Ode to my brother

I have three brothers and four sisters. Now, not all of them were born in this relation, I just hate using the "in-law" phrase-- it makes them seem less important. In 1999, my brother married and I acquired a second sister. When I got married in 2000, I gained two more sisters, one of which is married so another brother as well. Then my sister married in 2005 and I got my last brother. This is the brother I am giving thanks for today.

I finally have gotten to spend some time with him to get to know him better. He is for one, such a great dad to my precious nephew and niece. I couldn't have hand picked a better one for them. He takes very dear care of my little sister too. He also takes care of everyone of the citizens of the USA. Here, following the 4th of July, I wanted to thank God for him and express my gratitude not only to God for him, but to him also. You see he is a captain in the US Army. He has been deployed twice and is now stateside. He has seen men risk and give their lives to protect our freedom. I mean witnessed it, not just seen the effects. Lord you have given him a special gift -- a desire to protect. I'm thankful that he is watching over my baby sister. I want to lift him up in prayer and would like everyone to do so as well.

Along with him I want to lift all of our armed forces up. While we were on base last week, there was a huge group of soldiers preparing for some sort of ceremony. They all had their firearms and were waiting patiently. As I watched, I noticed how very young they were. They are boys in a mans role. Now I don't mean to belittle them, they have stepped up to take this role out of courage and passion. I just can picture their mothers scared to death for their young sons as they are called to duty. I am so grateful for their sacrifice as should all of Americans. Lord I offer a prayer just for these young men and women who have given up their freedom to protect ours.