Today, We Remember

The first US observance of Memorial Day occurred 156 years ago on May 30, 1868. Many credit Mary Ann Williams for the idea of honoring fallen soldiers from the Civil War during this time. When a life is lost, we take notice. We look for ways to honor those who have passed away, for example, crosses on the side of the road, statues in parks, buildings named after significant lives lived and lost, and the Purple Heart medal.

Memorial Day is a solemn occasion that allows us to pause and reflect on the ultimate sacrifice made by the men and women who died defending our country. Whether in the military or as first responders, these individuals willingly put themselves in harm’s way to serve our nation and its people. Today as we remember them, let us also remember their families who are left behind. If you have the opportunity, reach out to someone who has faced loss this week and assure them that their loved ones are not forgotten.

In Psalm 116:15, David writes about the Lord seeing the lives and deaths of his faithful servants as precious. He gives thanks to God for hardship and trials, for David can be thankful because of God’s deliverance. In Psalm 116:12, David asks what he can give because of God’s goodness. David commits to being faithful to the Lord.

Today, as we remember the lives lost for our country, it’s also an appropriate time to remember and honor our brothers and sisters in Christ who have gone on before us, from the faithful Kingdom servants who have been martyred for the cause of Christ, to our own family and church family members who have passed away. In their memory, may we strive to remain faithful to following Jesus.

Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship” (Romans 12:1).