Freeze!

That's what the voice in my head said this morning when I heard some news that quickly brought my family to its knees. "Freeze. Your head and your heart are needed somewhere more important. Stop running around like a headless chicken deciding on ceremony program fonts, prosciutto-wrapped asparagus rolls and the DEFINITELY DO NOT PLAY list."

My cousin, Matt, who is my age, and who I've grown up with, and had squabbles like siblings with for 26 years...is currently deployed in Afghanistan with the airborn division. He has been hit by a roadside bomb and has 2nd degree burns and possibly a broken back. The day after Independance day... I ask you to please say a prayer for his recovery, and all the troops for that matter.

I've been elbow-deep in wedding plans, and it all seems so insignificant now. I thank the Lord for keeping my cousin wrapped in love and prayers, and can't fathom how much worse things were so close to being.

If you know someone who has served, or currently serves for US and OUR country, give them an extra hug, an extra kiss, an extra I love you. Because tomorrow is not a promise. What little ol me can promise...is to respect, love, and appreciate the people that make our lives as we know it possible.

Almighty and eternal God,

Those who take refuge in you will be glad

and forever will shout for joy.

Protect these soldiers as they discharge their duties

Protect them with the shield of your strength

and keep them safe from all evil and harm.

May the power of your love enable them

to return home in safety, that with all who

love them, they may ever praise you

for your loving care.

We ask this through

Christ our Lord.

~Amen~