“Render therefore to all their dues; tribute to whom tribute is due: custom to whom custom: fear to whom fear: honour to whom honour.” (1)
A legacy is left for those who gave their lives for freedom. Freedom is not free, but comes at a cost. The cost has fallen substantially on those who gave their lives for us. Today is Memorial Day, a day to remember, thank, and show appreciation to men and women who gave up their comforts of home for the sake of our freedom. Many left the warm embrace of family, the love of a spouse, and the tears of a child who watched their mom or dad leave for war, and aunts, uncles and cousins were stirred by the unknown fears. Today let us celebrate and honor those who have gone before us to secure our place in America. The sacrifice of individuals who acted on their duty to serve our country to bring liberty – the freedom we now share. We bring tribute to them!
This is also a day to bring tribute and honor to families and loved ones who lost their son or daughter, wife or husband, brother or sister to war. To commemorate those soldiers who fought for our freedoms and sacrificed themselves even unto death giving their service willingly. With hearts of gratitude we respect those and with thankful honor. May we join together in prayer for those families?
“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted
and saves the crushed in spirit.” (2)
I recall how we prayed, for our son, Daniel to support the decision he made when he went into the Navy. We encouraged him for the dignity in the station he was set in. When he re-enlisted in the Navy, I particularly remember a sense of sadness, not knowing his future, along with the ache of already losing a son. When I received the news of his ship sailing into the war zone, I became afraid. I prayed all the more for his protection. In time peace covered me where God’s faith lessened my fear as grace substantially supported me. Today we are proud of his faithful service to his country.
The greatest legacy ever left is that of the great Shepherd who left his last will and testament to His flock – His disciples. The legacy left was Jesus’ words just before His crucifixion, when His words revealed what was heaviest on His heart. In love He encouraged the disciples with these words, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give unto you: not as the world giveth, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be fearful.” (3)
Christ’s great concern was to relieve their pain and distress. His affections were real, strong and eternally sound. He knew His disciples would need these words in the months ahead. When He left this earth, peace carried them through difficult tribulations.
In all stations in life let us excel to show and respect those who have served our country. Above all, let us reverence our Lord and Savior whose cost was a even higher price. He died for our sins to bridge our relationship back to the Father by His sacrificial death, resurrection, and life.
Lord, keep me mindful of those who have risk their lives to secure freedom for me, some even onto death. Thank you for their sacrifice. In appreciation I thank you too, for Your personal sacrifice for my spiritual freedom. I do not take for granted what You have accomplished on the cross for me. Amen.
Footnotes:
1. Roman 13:7 kjb
2. Psalm 34:18 esv
3. John 14:27 asv
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