In 1971, Congress declared Memorial Day a national holiday to honor those who died in all American wars. Today that number exceeds 1.3 million women and men.
How can we best remember them? Let’s follow an example that takes place in Israel. On May 5 every year, the entire nation stops to remember those who gave their lives in defense of the State of Israel and those who have been murdered by terrorists since the 1948 founding of the nation.
When sirens sound the entire population stops whatever they are doing. In that moment, even tour buses pull over to the side of the road, joining drivers across the nation, and they all stand outside for a time of reflection.
The American version of this ceremony is called the National Moment of Remembrance. On Memorial Day at 3 P.M. local time all Americans are called to pause for a minute of silence and to thank God for the sacrifice of those who died to defend our freedom.
This Memorial Day let’s ask God for His healing and peace for the survivors of our fallen soldiers. Let’s thank the Heavenly Father for our liberty, purchased at so high a cost.
Twenty-four centuries ago, the Athenian leader Pericies offered this tribute to the fallen heroes of the Peloponnesian War: “Not only are they commemorated by columns and inscriptions, but there dwells also an unwritten memorial of them, graven not on stone but in the hearts of men.” May the same be true of us for our fallen heroes on Memorial Day.
And may we also remember the ultimate sacrifice:
“For our sake He made Him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in Him we might become the righteousness of God.” (2 Corinthians 5:21)
The next time we encounter a veteran, let’s thank them for their service, and may they smile and say, “You Are Worth It.” Jesus says the same to you today.
Have a grateful weekend. Make it better by worshiping The LORD with those who know their freedom wasn’t free and don’t take it for granted as Americans and as Children of God.
All For Jesus – Nothing More, Nothing Less, Nothing Else.
Vic Alvarado 