This Memorial Day weekend we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and we pray for the men and women who currently stand in the gap for our protection.

Memorial Day Story

I'd like to share an inspirational Memorial Day story, The Boys of Iwo Jima by Michael T. Powers, from his book Heart Touchers - Life-Changing Stories of Faith, Love, and Laughter. It's a powerful reminder of the reason we celebrate Memorial Day. I'm sure Mike would want you to share it with family and friends this weekend.

• The Boys of Iwo Jima

Memorial Day Prayer

Dear Heavenly Father,

As we remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the freedoms we enjoy every day, we think of how they have followed in the footsteps of your son, our Savior, Jesus Christ. Please hold our servicemen and women in your strong arms. Cover them with your sheltering grace and your presence as they stand in the gap for our protection.

We also remember the families of our troops. We ask for your unique blessings to fill their homes, and we pray your peace, provision, and strength will fill their lives.

May the members of our armed forces be supplied with courage to face each day and may they trust in the Lord's mighty power to accomplish each task. Let our military brothers and sisters feel our love and support.

In the name of Jesus. Amen.

• Memorial Day Prayers

_{Image Credit: © Karen Barefoot}

Many concepts surrounding the person of the Holy Spirit are not only difficult to understand, but also hard to explain. Certain Bible translations refer to him as the Holy Ghost, painting an image of a spooky dead person. As a result, some Christians experience a strong fear of the Holy Spirit.

The Bible also depicts the Holy Spirit as a dove. On the Day of Pentecost, in the book of Acts, the Baptism of the Holy Spirit came with the sound of a blowing violent wind and appeared as tongues of fire. So, it's no wonder many of us are confused about the Holy Spirit.

I've simplified the matter with this series of topical teachings on the Holy Spirit:

• Profile - Person of the Holy Spirit
• Who is the Holy Spirit?
• Divine Works of the Holy Spirit
• Baptism of the Holy Spirit
• Gifts of the Holy Spirit
• What is the Trinity?

Brendan was already falling for Jamie when she found out she was pregnant. He knew he needed to change, get his life on the right path, and once and for all, stop cheating on Jamie. But he needed a power greater than himself to resist the temptation--he needed something real. Eventually, both Jamie and Brendan found that something real when they gave their lives to Jesus Christ.

Read: Finding Something Real

Submit a Testimony:

• Testimony Submission Form
• Share a Before & After Story of Salvation
• Sign Up for eTestimonies

_{Image © Brendan Kruse}

In each of the listings of the 12 disciples, Philip's name appears fifth. Scripture indicates that Philip was one of the first to follow Jesus Christ, and he wasted no time calling others, like Nathanael, to do the same.

The name Philip is Greek and means "lover of horses." Although little is known about him after the ascension of Christ, Bible historians believe Philip preached the gospel in Phrygia, in Asia Minor, and died a martyr there at Hierapolis.

Learn how Philip's search for the truth led him to the promised Messiah, Jesus Christ.

• Profile: Philip the Apostle

_{Photo: Getty Images}