Memorial Day calls Americans to take time to consider the
sacrifice that so many have made to allow this country to be free. As the white
markers at Arlington National Cemetery vividly depict, this sacrifice often involves the loss of life. It is no small thing to give one’s life that others may benefit. Certainly, those in the
military should be appreciated for their willingness to make this sacrifice.
This holiday is a reminder that there is more to life than living.
God calls his people to consider him first in this life. This
means putting aside your own desires and embracing God’s ways. In one sense
this is also a sacrifice, as Jesus says in Matthew 16. Raising children
involves much sacrifice. But this sacrifice must be for God’s sake, not
primarily for the sake of your children. Parents, to be faithful shepherds you
must be willing to lose your life for the glory of God. By being willing to
lose your life you are then able to take hold of life that is truly life. It is
this singular vision that speaks powerfully to your children about your love
for Jesus Christ.
The ultimate remembrance for Christians is the life, death
and resurrection of Christ. His death brought life and purpose to our lost
souls. So while our nation sets aside a day each year to remember the deaths of
those serving in battle, as Christians, each day should be a memorial day. Each
day we should remember the sacrifice made for us so that we might live for the
glory of God. We are not our own.
For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my
sake will find it. — Matthew 16:25