Happy Birthday, Marines!

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Outdo one another in showing honor. — Romans 12:10

My husband and I have the privilege of working with all five branches of the military. But until last week we had never been part of a Marine Corps birthday ceremony, officially celebrated on the 10^th of November to mark that date in 1775 when the Continental Congress declared two battalions of Marines would be raised.

We had never heard the detailed explanation of the traditions surrounding the Marine Corps birthday celebration, until last week. We had never seen a Marine Corps birthday cake cut with the sword and given ceremoniously to the oldest and youngest Marines present, until last week.  At the particular celebration location where we gathered, the oldest Marine present was 72 years old and the youngest was 70 years old. . . there were as many smiles in our group as there were tears. And particularly meaningful was that part of the ceremony when the birthday greeting was given by the Commandant, General James F. Amos, by video:

On this 236^th birthday of the Marine Corps, we have the opportunity to reflect on things that are honorable. . . including the heroic service of Marines and their families throughout the history of the United States. It does us well to think on things that are honorable: “Finally, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is of good repute, if there is any excellence and if anything worthy of praise, dwell on these things.” (Philippians 4:8) Betsy Childs writes in Ravi Zacharias’ devotional site, A Slice of Infinity, of the value of thinking in this way, “While it took me a while to think of things that fit these characteristics, once I thought of them, my heart was full of gratitude and admiration. I found that I started looking out for these things, striving to recognize excellence and make note of it in my mind.” (“Think on These Things” 4/17/07)

It seems fitting to close this tribute to our fellow service members and their dear families with The Marine’s Prayer: “Almighty Father, whose command is over all and whose love never fails, make me aware of Thy presence and obedient to Thy will. Keep me true to my best self, guarding me against dishonesty in purpose and deed and helping me to live so that I can face my fellow Marines, my loved ones and Thee without shame or fear. Protect my family. Give me the will to do the work of a Marine and to accept my share of responsibilities with vigor and enthusiasm. Grant me the courage to be proficient in my daily performance. Keep me loyal and faithful to my superiors and to the duties my country and the Marine Corps have entrusted to me. Make me considerate of those committed to my leadership. Help me to wear my uniform with dignity, and let it remind me daily of the traditions which I must uphold. If I am inclined to doubt, steady my faith; if I am tempted, make me strong to resist; if I should miss the mark, give me courage to try again. Guide me with the light of truth and grant me wisdom by which I may understand the answer to my prayer. Amen.”

Thank you, Marines, for your proud and sacrificial service. And as we thank them, we thank all of you—the Soldiers, Airmen, Sailors, Coast Guardsmen. . . active duty, Guard, Reserve . . . and your families. . . for your faithfulness to serve in a noble cause with dignity and honor.

“Pray for us. We are sure that we have a clear conscience and desire to live honorably in every way.” Hebrews 13:18

Questions to Share:

1. What emotions did the video invoke in your spirit? Share those with your spouse.

2. In what ways is your military service leaving a legacy of honor in your family? How has God prepared you to serve in this way?