Memorial Day is about more than picnics, vacation and the end of the school year. It is an opportunity to reflect on those who have given their life for our country and for our loved ones who have passed. The memories of others often seem crowded out by the busyness of life with our over booked calendars. Establishing a day of remembering is healthy as we determine what direction our lives will take from here. Legacy lives on; long after a life is over. Memories live on too, and what a great time to share some of your favorite ones on Memorial Day.
Did you know God instructed in His word what to do to counteract forgetfulness? In Hebrews 2:1 He said, “Give the more earnest heed to the things you have heard lest they slip.” Reviews, reevaluations and rereading helps. Ask any child about their first few weeks back in school after the summer, when math is all about review.
Why is it important not to forget? Because some things are foundational and needed for building and expanding. When it comes to God’s Word, forgetting is easy to do in a culture that does not respect God’s Word and His wisdom, ways and principles. Anchoring yourselves to truth helps when you can’t think straight and you are pulled in every direction.
Psalms 103 states, “Do not forget all His benefits—who forgives you of all your sins.” If this one truth is not cornerstone, then it is easy to go our own way with no regard of the extravagant price paid for all of mankind. Remembering you are forgiven lets you live free of guilt and shame and you are able to live righteous with rejoicing. Also remembering, Jesus is the One who forgave you in full by His complete work on the cross. Remembering the price paid, and the sins forgiven, empowers you to give your life in gratitude.
Jesus made a meal of memory so we would never forget all He has freely given to us. It is communion. The bread symbolizes His body beaten, bruised and afflicted so we could go free. The wine reminds us of the blood shed, to forgive us and cleanse us from all our past. It is easy to forget, neglect and reject His death when we fail to remember the ultimate gift and His incredible love
May this Memorial Day have new meaning as you remember? Take a moment to reflect on the frailty of our lives and His eternal gift. Retell the memories of lives who have impacted you and why. And, as you reflect on Jesus and His death, remember His death was temporary. He is resurrected and lives forever more. Death to the believer is merely the shedding off of our earthly bodies, returning to dust, as we exchange this life for heaven’s shores. No wonder the sting has been taken from death and resurrected Hope lives.
Never forget.