Memorial Day 2009

I was reading a little bit about Memorial Day and happened upon these photos from www.usmemorialday.org. Photos were taken by Daniel J. Wood. In the pain and dreariness of these photos, there is much beauty. I'll never forget somberness I felt when visiting Arlington Cemetery, the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, Vietnam Memorial, etc. I am so thankful and have a deep respect to the Americans who have gone before us to fight for and preserve our freedom. Thank you for your sacrifices. It reminded me of a beautiful song by Casting Crowns, and I have listed the lyrics below.

Praise You in This Storm
words by Mark Hall
music by Mark Hall and Bernie Herms

I was sure by now, God, that You would have reached down
and wiped our tears away,
stepped in and saved the day.
But once again, I say amen
and it's still raining.
As the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain,
"I'm with you."
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away.

Chorus:
And I'll praise you in this storm.
And I will lift my hands.
For You are who You are,
no matter where I am.
And every tear I've cried,
You hold in your hand.
You never left my side.
And though my heart is torn,
I will praise You in this storm.


I remember when I stumbled in the wind.
You heard my cry to You,
and raised me up again.
My strength is almost gone how can I carry on
if I can't find You?
And as the thunder rolls
I barely hear You whisper through the rain
"I'm with you."
And as Your mercy falls
I raise my hands and praise
the God who gives and takes away.

Chorus

I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth
I lift my eyes onto the hills
where does my help come from?
My help comes from the Lord, the maker of heaven and earth

Chorus