# Happy and blessed 4th of July: It's the soldier
*2018-07-04*

> Bill Young reflects on the meaning of Independence Day, the importance of those who serve, and a recent spiritual experience involving St. Padre Pio.

## A Spiritual Connection

I want to share a recent experience I had. I've been working with a book called 'You Can Get This Yourself,' and I picked up several copies at a conference a few weeks ago. I previously told you the story about the APO Padre Pio; I had an opportunity to place it by the casing in the heartless place of St. Pio, and I felt this warmth emanating from it. At that moment, I thought of the Gospel reading where Jesus is in a large crowd and feels His power go out from Him. He turns around and finds a woman who had touched His cloak. I had a similar feeling in that moment, which I don't totally understand, but interestingly, this past Sunday's Gospel reading was that very story of the woman.

## Serving the Community

Last night, as part of the Legion of Mary, I had the opportunity to bring Mary into someone's home to pray the rosary and bless the house. I was able to bless the family with St. Pio. I have a feeling that St. Pio was active this morning, especially since it was also the weekend of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Nothing happens without God's knowledge and acceptance, so Jesus may have been there too.

## Honoring Our Soldiers

I found a reflection in the bulletin from St. Gregory's called 'It's the Soldier,' and I believe it is very important. It says: 'It's the soldier, not the reporter, who has given us freedom. It's the soldier, not the poet, who has given us freedom of speech. It's the soldier, not the politician, that ensures our rights to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.' It is the soldier who salutes the flag and serves, and it is their coffins that are draped by the flag.

## A Call to Gratitude

As we celebrate our independence with barbecues, hamburgers, hot dogs, and apple pie, we should realize what is truly important. Many people in many wars gave their lives so that we could have this freedom. Let us pray for and bless the soldiers who are living and working overseas to keep us safe, as well as those serving here in this country—our armed services, first responders, police, fire, and the teachers who educate our children.

## The Spirit of Service

There is so much service that goes on around us. I want to acknowledge our pastors, priests, bishops, deacons, lay people, choir members, and everyone who helps and serves our church, our country, and our God.

*As we celebrate the 4th of July, let us remember to pray for and honor all those who serve and sacrifice to ensure our freedom and well-being.*