Memorial Day

Memorial Day is a national day of remembrance for those who died in the service of our country. Being a national holiday, it has no religious foundation. As a day of national significance, I think that it is fitting that each of us take time to consider the blessings that we have received through the sacrifice of our fellow Americans. Without sounding too sarcastic, the first thing that comes to the minds of many Americans, is that we get a 3-day holiday. After that, it is the very life that we live. Also, the lives of non-Americans that have been improved.

In terms of sacrifice, think about your life. Whatever station you are in life, whatever you possess, whoever you love, whatever you do, what would it take for you to risk losing it all. If you are married, what would it take for you to risk your spouse’s future, or your children’s loss. Even though they didn’t plan to die, these heroes laid their lives and their families future, on the line for you and me.

Even though we cannot repay them, we should honor them. From a national point of view, we should do everything possible to make America a nation that holds to the value of sacrifice. When I was younger, all that I was concerned with was myself. As I have gotten older, I realize how important it is to leave things better than when I found them.

As a Christian, I need to embrace the truth that no one can have a greater love than to lay his life down for his friends. If I were to spend my life securing the safety of my friends, I believe that I would be honoring those who literally spent their lives for us.

Jesus said that we are to love one another as He has loved us. In a way, isn’t that what we honor today? Isn’t it to honor those who loved country and duty more than life?

I thank God for the men and women who have died for America. My heart breaks for those they left behind. I pray that I can honor them by being a better American and Christian.

Love, Pastor Don