Isiah 26:1-7 says, "On that day they will sing this song in the land of Judah: A strong city have we; he sets up walls and ramparts to protect us. Open up the gates to let in a nation that is just, one that keeps faith. A nation of firm purpose you keep in peace; in peace, for its trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever! For the Lord is an eternal rock. He humbles those in high places, and the lofty city he brings down; He tumbles it to the ground, levels it with the dust. It is trampled underfoot by the needy, by the footsteps of the poor. The way of the just is smooth; the path of the just you make level." How glorious would that be if we were shouting this from the top of the highest buildings in the land or, even better, from every pulpit in the land? On this day we choose to honor our veterans, it is fitting to think about the protection that the Lord has offered to us. Why are we not rushing to accept it? In fact, many of us Catholics are embracing this offer. We are living just lives that have been made smooth by the Lord. We are shining examples to others that a life filled with God can be less troublesome. It is our duty to spread this message to others. We are the active church being used by God to conquer the loftiness of the world. To be prepared to carry out your mission, you must be trained, just as we provide training for our soldiers. On this Veteran's Day I encourage you to think about the next step in your spiritual training. How can you allow God into every corner of your life? Trust in the Lord Forever!