PRAISE & PRAYER PROMPT ••• I cringed at myself the other day at the bank.
I finished my transaction, and as I turned to leave, I said, “Have a happy Memorial Day!”
Where that came from, I do not know.
I know it’s a commonplace saying, but I try not to say it because I know for many—Memorial Day represents the loss of loved ones in the name of freedom.
We have a tendency to muddy the waters of what this day represents by spotlighting veterans and active servicemen and servicewomen.
And those are groups of people who certainly deserve recognition.
But today is about honoring the lives of the ones who didn’t make it home.
According to a report by Senator Chuck Grassley of Iowa, over 1.3 million Americans have died in American wars.
That’s staggering given that our country is 243 years old this year.
If it makes it easier, that averages to over 5300 deaths a year.
445+ deaths a month.
Over 14 deaths per day in the name of freedom.
In John 15:13, Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.”
The ones we honor today have demonstrated great love for America and the foundation of what our country represents.
We enjoy freedom in America but the question today is, “Are we really free?”
Jesus answered this question in John 8:36, “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.”
Jesus offers the ultimate freedom from sin and eternal damnation through His saving grace.
As we remember those who gave everything in the name of freedom, let us also turn our eyes to the one who also died to set us free—Jesus Christ.
Today, as you pray, thank God for the brave men and women who died for American freedoms.
And thank Jesus who paid the price for our eternal freedom.
Ask the Holy Spirit to comfort those who mourn and fill your heart with gratitude for all the ways you have been set free.
One Response
John 15:13 is a great reminder. Thanks for sharing this, Denise .