Love for the Red, White and Blue

My husband has always said we will not travel oversees until we've seen all of America. I usually respond with a frown on my face and then secretly hope one day he will change his mind. My heart's desire is to see the world.

He's right though. There are many other countries I have my heart set on visiting, but there are so many places right here in America that we've yet to explore. And why not first explore this country of ours? My heart sours when I spend time in the mountains. The prairies all green and full of life open my eyes to the beauty and vastness of our country. Peace fills every part of me when I sit along the ocean and listen to the waves crash against the shoreline.

God Bless America, land that I love.

I've learned much from this husband of mine. His love for America has become contagious. A love so deep he's willing to stand up and protect her—protect us. Many times I find it hard to wrap my mind around that. My husband is part of the one percent of Americans willing to sacrifice their life for our country—mind boggling indeed.

The American Flag towers over our house. I recently noticed for the first time what a delight it is to drive down our street as I make my way home to see our flag flying. A part of me wanted to pull over, get out of my car and simply stop and sing...God Bless America. It took my breath away.

We can all learn from this one percent. Have you ever been on a military base and witnessed how the entire base stands still when "Reveille" or "Retreat" are played? As either is played you stop and render honors to the American Flag. Seriously friends...it's an amazing site to see. I imagine some get tired of the disruption, and maybe I would too, but I'd like to believe I would not. I'd like to believe that every time it reminded me of how greatly we are blessed.

Yes, this man of mine has taught me a few things about loving our country. It's funny how becoming a military family changed us. Every part of me wanted to fight it. I'm glad I lost the fight.

Not only have I discovered a new love for this country, I fell in love with the One who created it.

"He existed before anything else, and he holds all creation together." ~ Colossians 1:17

"He chose to give birth to us by giving us his true word. And we, out of all creation, became his prized possession." ~ James 1:18

"No power in the sky above or in the earth below—indeed, nothing in all creation will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus our Lord." ~ Romans 8:39

I feel blessed not only to be an American, but more importantly to be a child of God. And do you know what God said about His creation?  "Then God looked over all he had made, and he saw that it was very good!" ~ Genesis 1:31

Thank you, God. My love for America and for You runs deep.

I also wrote a post as I reflected on Memorial Day. I would love for you to read it here.

Sharing with the lovely Kristen Strong.
And also with Melanie for her Friday Favorites Link-up.