We, as a nation, celebrate today as a day of remembrance. It’s not a day of jubliant celebration like the 4th of July, it’s more somber. It should be a day we never forget, a day of gratitude.
At one point this remembrance occurred on May 1. It was referred to as Decoration Day. Graves of the fallen were decorated as a sign of honor.
This nation was founded by people who were willing to lay down their very lives so that others could and would know freedom. Freedom from tyranny. Freedom from dictatorial governments. Freedom from oppression. Freedom to govern under their own set of laws.
Freedom.
I am thankful that I have no immediate relatives who died in combat. Some served bravely but none of them made the ultimate sacrifice and so we honor them on Veteran’s Day. I have friends who died in Viet Nam and I have friends whose loved ones have died in conflict.
Their lives were lost to preserve freedom. I am grateful.
If you are with friends and family today hug them tightly and thank God for their safety. Then take time to remember in prayer those whose hearts are aching because of the loss of a loved one. Thank the Lord for those who willingly served, who went when they were called and never returned.
Today is a day to remember. Let’s honor them with our gratitude and with our prayers.
The greatest display of love any of us will ever receive came from Jesus. He gave his life for each one of us.
“There is one God and one Mediator who can reconcile God and humanity—the man Christ Jesus. 6 He gave his life to purchase freedom for everyone.” I Timothy 2:5-6 NLT
The second greatest expression was that of the American military member.
“There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:13 NLV
Make this a day to remember.