One of the beautiful traditions of the Navy is the sounding of "Colors" when the flag is being hoisted in the morning and again at sunset when it is being lowered. As dictated by tradition (and respect), individuals must stand at attention or, if they are driving a vehicle on base, they must pull to the side and stop until the anthem is finished.
A few days ago, I drove onto base just as Colors began to sound. I pulled quickly to the side and stopped to listen. And watch. All around, cars that had been humming along busily to work were silenced. Men and women in uniform were still,standing tall and proud. Everything was quiet except for the beautiful sound of "Colors"...
I felt an overwhelming sense of pride...and sadness. I love my country. I love the brave soldiers who serve her now and have served before. I wish that "Colors" could be sounded everywhere in this country, not just on the military installations. I wish that every American would stand still, by choice, when the flag was raised and lowered. And that they would listen with respect, thinking for a moment each day of those who are fighting and have fought in the past.
And as I pondered this while the last haunting sounds of "Colors" faded away, I thought of Psalm 46:10 where we are commanded to "Be still and know that I am God."
What if we were all forced to "Be still and know"? To know GOD! What an incredible feeling that would be. It makes me wish that God would hoist up a flag and play His own version of Holy Colors to call us all to attention! And one day He's going to do just that. But instead of standing, we will all be flat on our faces in awe and reverence.
In the meantime, now whenever I hear "Colors", I stand still and think of Jesus who is Lord of Lord and King of Kings. I say a prayer of thanks for my country and for our servicemen and women. And then I just enjoy the moment.
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