As the minutes and hours tick down, especially for the early arrivals to the 2014 SS Georgia Rally, I would like to call this forum to order and ask each of you (literally or figuratively) to take a knee....
Heavenly Father, Grand Marshal of every individual convoy or singular vehicle about to roll to the Rally Point,
We pray a cover of Your angels over all who are preparing for and will be deploying on this "mission". Lord, You know the hearts of all who will be in attendance and we ask Your perfect blessings for safe travels, brotherly fun and frolic, safety on the trails and in the camping areas and cabins, good wholesome and nourishing food and maybe a few dietary indulgences, and for everyone's safe return to their homes and families. We ask You to keep the enemy (also known around here as: Mr. Murphy) from any wily or disruptive act against any of the participants or their equipment. For those wishing to, but unable to attend, we stand by as prayer warriors lifting the rallying troops up for their wellbeing. For the hardworking organizers and volunteers we pray a special blessing, knowing that You have love for the cheerful giver(s) amongst us - may their contributions be appreciated and rewarded, and their cups be filled to overflowing. For those conducting business, we pray fair and equitable trading for the buyers and the sellers in good faith and all honesty. As missionaries for this Military Vehicle Hobby, we pray that the general public will see only good and decent folks sharing their interests and enthusiasm as peaceful - though somewhat eccentric - members of the community. May the place that is left behind be good and clean and no worse for where with but footprints and tire tracks left behind without unnecessary damage to Your good earth. Let us always be mindful of the environment You've entrusted to us.
Finally, Father, we ask that You bless this nation in which we live freely and with liberty ordained by our founding fathers in their belief in You, God Almighty. May the flag that flies over this Rally and this nation forever represent the banner of Your God-given freedom from oppression and tyranny. In short, GOD BLESS AMERICA!
AMEN.
As Chaplain, I ask each of you to read this prayer, or words of your own choice, solemnly before you roll out. Hit your knees if so led and sincerely take it's message in your heart.
The rest of us are expecting wonderful reports in your After Action Reports. Be blessed!
John
SS Chaplain
