“The LORD is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit.” (1)
We bring tribute to those who have gone before us and died, to secure our place in America. We remember them and the legacy they left! Freedom is not free, but comes at a cost. The cost has fallen substantially on those who gave their lives for us. Tomorrow is Memorial Day, a time to thank, and show appreciation to men and women who gave up the 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. Aunts, uncles and cousins were stirred by the unknown fears their loved one might encounter not knowing if they would ever see them again.
We commemorate those who died for our Country
We honor those families and loved ones who lost their son or daughter, wife or husband, brother or sister to war. To commemorate those soldiers who bravely fought for our freedom – with dignity they sacrificed themselves even unto death…giving their service willingly. With hearts of gratitude we respect and thank them.
May we join together in prayer for families hurting?
It is a time when we can show sensitivity to those families who mourn the loss of a love one who died in the war. It is through a common bond of prayer we come to hold them up in compassion and through supplications. In agreement we can petition God to provide wisdom and strength to carry on. Let us pray and serve them as their loved ones have served us.
The greatest legacy ever!
The greatest legacy ever left is that of the great Shepherd who left his last will and testament to His flock – His disciples. Jesus’ last words just before His crucifixion was the legacy He left. The heaviest desire on His heart before He died was the love and peace He wanted to convey to His disciples. “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.” (2) Christ’s greatest concern was not for Himself but to relieve their pain and distress. His affections were real, strong and eternally sound. He knew His disciples would need these words…a peace to carry them through difficult tribulations.
In all stations in life let us excel to show and respect those who have died for our country. And above all may we remember to reverence our Lord and Savior who died at even a higher price. He died for our sins to reconcile us back to the Father by His sacrificial death, resurrection, and life.
Lord, keep me mindful of those who have risk their lives to secure my freedom unto death. Help me to be compassionate and sensitive to those who hurt from loss of a love one who may have died in battle. 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. Psalm 34:18 esv
2. John 14:27 asv
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