This is Memorial Day weekend. We often think of it as a three day weekend signifying the beginning of summer, The origins of this holiday are far more somber.
Memorial Day began as “Decoration Day” May 30, 1868. It originated in the aftermath of the Civil War to honor those who had died in service during the war. Today, it remains a day set apart to honor those who have died in military service. (Veterans Day in November honors all those—alive and dead—that have and do serve in the military.)
Jesus said,
“‘Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends.’” John 15:13
This weekend as we enjoy our family, friends, and leisure time, let’s pause, remember, and give thanks for those who gave their very existence to bring us the lives we so freely enjoy.
Little known fact: There is a designated time of remembrance Monday, Memorial Day, at 3 pm local time.
Let’s commit to remember the great love of country that it took for those who have died in service to our country—in service to us, the American people.
In closing, let me share a quote from President Abraham Lincoln’s second inaugural address. He spoke these words as the Civil War was coming to an end. I think they are as important today as they were then.
“With malice toward none with charity for all with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right let us strive on to finish the work we are in to bind up the nation’s wounds, to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow and his orphan ~ to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace among ourselves and with all nations.”
Wishing you a meaningful and memorable Memorial Day.