Yesterday was Veterans’ Day. Before 1954, it was called Armistice Day to commermorate the end of World War I. By 1954, it was recognized that the “war to end all wars” didn’t happen. There was World War II, Korea, Vietnam, the Gulf War, The War in Afghanistan. It doesn’t seem the war to end all wars happened, did it?

Veterans’ Day means the following from one source: … A celebration to honor America’s veterans for their patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve and sacrifice for the common good.

My reading of Scripture today emphasized “remembering”. First, I read in Joshua when the Israelites entered their promised land, they were to stack memorial stones from the Jordan River. Twelve for each tribe. In Deuteronomy, they were commanded to not forget–and tell it to their children and their children’s children. And lastly, one of my favorites:

Praise the Lord, my soul,
and forget not all his benefits—(Psalm 103:2 NIV).

Yesterday, we remembered the sacrifices our veterans made. Today, let’s remember  the Lord’s benefits.

Often we give thanks when our prayers have been answered in a big way. But let’s remember to thank God for the little things, too. For me, my back twinges feel better today. That’s opportunity to give thanks. But moment by moment, we can give thanks.

Oftentimes, we give thanks during November and that’s really good. But let’s continue every day. Write them down. Tell your children and grandchildren. Let’s forget not all his benefits. Or as The Message puts it:

2 O my soul, bless God.
From head to toe, I’ll bless his holy name!
O my soul, bless God,
don’t forget a single blessing!

Start remembering and giving thanks. I’m going to. From head to toe!