Stop and Remember

Memorial Day is a day for remembering those individuals who have died in our nation’s military service. Throughout the Bible the people of God were encouraged to remember what God had done for them.  The Bible says, “Give praise to the Lord, proclaim his name; make known among the nations what he has done.  Sing to him, sing praise to him; tell of all his wonderful acts. Glory in his holy name; let the hearts of those who seek the Lord rejoice. Look to the Lord and his strength; seek his face always. Remember the wonders he has done” (Psalm 105:1-6).  The eleven bold-faced, underlined, action words (or group of words) in this biblical reference suggest ways to remember.  Maybe it is time for you and me to stop and remember by using one or more of these action steps during the Memorial Day weekend.  Regarding Passover, a major Jewish holiday, they were told, “This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come” (Exodus 12:14).

You and I can (and should) use Memorial Day as a day to continue to celebrate our freedom and remember the many who fought and died for us.  As we celebrate, we can honor their lives and praise God for the many blessings we enjoy as a result.  Remembering brings us back to the reality of the dedication of the many military men and women who stood strong for us.  Remembering should also stir in us a sense of gratitude and appreciation, as well as strengthen our resolve to do our part in serving God, country and others.  At a family gathering you may want to stop and remember and then offer a prayer of thanksgiving.  Above all, take time to show honor and respect for those who served our country or are still serving.