Memorial Day

When we think about Memorial Day – what is the first thing that comes to mind? If you are anything like the majority of the people that I encounter in the workplace the list looks something like this:

1) Three Day Weekend
2) Monday Off
3) Barbeque
4) Day at the Lake
5) Honey-Do-List

It is startling how the typical American’s concept of Memorial Day is completely devoid if any sense of “memorial.” This is no longer a day in which most Americans spend real time remembering the sacrifice of those who lost their life in wartime military service. Some of us will give passing reference to the fact that this is a day to remember civil servants in general – a few will remember the military members specifically, and fewer still will really focus in on those military members who died, whose lives were sacrificed, in defense of our nation.

We live in a society that has become extraordinary self-centered and Memorial Day provides a great opportunity to encourage ourselves, our neighbors, and our families to reflect on sacrifice. Take a moment to call out the sacrifice of our service men and women – those who have died in defense of our nation. Be sure to recognize this extraordinary sacrifice. Surely we can do this for a few short moments one day of the year. Perhaps as we discuss this with our unbelieving friends and family members we will be emboldened to discuss another sacrificed life – that of Christ.