Keep the "Memorial" in Memorial Day

Grave marker in the Clinton City Cemetery (North Carolina),
honoring one of the more than a million soldiers who have
given the life in the service of this nation.

"Precious in the sight of the Lord is the death of his faithful ones..."- Psalm 116:15

May 26, 2019.

Today in church I asked some people to stand for recognition and honor.

I don’t do this very often, but for occasions that call for us to honor the men and women who put their lives on the line for the security and freedom of this nation, I feel compelled to extend gratitude for the tremendous sacrifices they have made. And so on occasions like the Sunday closest to Veterans Day, I will ask that all people who have served in the armed services to stand, so that we can thank them. I do the same on the Sunday nearest July 4, because our independence as a nation has come only at the cost of countless human lives.

But today was different, because on Memorial Day the honorees aren’t present. They have died – in battle, in training exercises, in accidents while in uniform. The people we honor on Memorial Day are those who have died while still in uniform.

They paid the ultimate price for our freedom.

And so I asked for people to stand who have known soldiers who have died while in active service. Someone needs to stand, so that we can remember. And so we can give thanks for those who have made the ultimate sacrifice.

Jesus said, “No greater love is there than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (John 15:13) Then Jesus demonstrated his love by dying for us.

By choosing to wear the uniform, the men and women of the armed services implicitly make their commitment to that teaching of Jesus – they are willing to lay down their lives for you and me, and for our freedom. And some – many, in fact – have fulfilled the greatest love completely.

Memorial Day is a holiday. It’s a day of rest, of relaxation by the beach, or in the mountains, or at the park. It’s a day of family gatherings, cookouts, and parties.

But please, also remember that this day is possible because of those who can’t join us.

And remember that for every woman or man who has died in the service of our nation, there is a family for whom this particular day is both a source of pain as well as pride. If you know a Gold Star family, reach out to them and let them know you are thinking of them. If you know a soldier, thank him or her.

The Psalmist says, “The Lord is near to the brokenhearted, and saves the crushed in spirit.” (Psalm 34:18) Often the most tangible way that the Lord draws near to the brokenhearted is through people like you and me. If you have the opportunity, let yourself be used in this way.

Enjoy Memorial Day. Those who have paid the ultimate price in order for you to have this holiday would want nothing more.

But also make sure you pause in humility and gratitude, and remember.