Memorial Day

Monday is Memorial Day.  It is a day set aside to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.  It is a time to remember the families they have left behind as well.

            “War is hell.” The quote is attributed to General Sherman, but anyone who has been in battle knows it to be true.  I did not serve in the military, but have had friends and family who will simply not talk about some of the things that they experienced, “over there.”  Well beyond the difficulties of separation from family, the things that take place on the battlefield are often beyond description. No sacrifice is as great as the giving of one’s life.

            Jesus said, “Greater love has no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friend.”  And Jesus Himself would lay down His life for us.  That is the marvelous news of the gospel.  The Bible tells us that God saw our condition, had mercy and compassion on us, and sent His Son to give His life for us.  All who trust in Him receive forgiveness and eternal life.

            For many Memorial Day has become not much more than a four-day weekend, and the official start to the Summer season. That is too bad.  The truth is that our country is free, and we have so many privileges, because there have been those who have served and given their lives for our freedoms. We should pause to remember and to give thanks for this ultimate act of sacrifice.

            But even more we should be grateful for the freedom that Jesus offers because of His sacrifice on our behalf.  What a blessing to live in a free country. And even more to know that we are heirs to the riches of God Himself because we have trusted in His Son. Have a safe and blessed Memorial Day.