Memorial Day, originally known as Decoration Day, originated in the years following the Civil War and became an official federal holiday in 1971. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades. Unofficially, it marks the beginning of the summer season.
Memorial Day is an opportunity to give thanks and remember family members or others who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the freedoms that we often take for granted. It is not just an opportunity to gather with family and friends for the unofficial start of summer. It is an opportunity to give thanks for those whose lives are lost. This is what Memorial Day is for families who have lost loved ones.
When we talk about sacrifice, not only do we think of those who gave their lives in service to our country. We also think about the sacrifice that was made for us and for our salvation through the suffering, death, and resurrection of the Lord Jesus Christ. While American soldiers who gave their lives did so in defense of physical freedom, Jesus gave His life so that we might experience spiritual freedom from guilt, condemnation, and the consequences of sin which was an eternal separation from God the Father. John 15:13, the words of Jesus says, “Greater love has no one than this but to lay down one’s life for his friends.” This is what Jesus has done for us.
While we remember American soldiers who died to preserve our freedom, let us remember them and give thanks for them and their sacrifice. However, let us also give thanks to the Lord Jesus Christ in remembrance of what He has done for us and for our salvation.