Memorial Day is an American holiday that is observed on the last Monday of May as a day for remembering and honoring the courageous men and women who have died for the cause of freedom while serving in our military. Several other countries have similar, solemn occasions, generally dating to the end of World War I and known as Remembrance Day.
Originally observed in our land following the Civil War, it was known as Decoration Day, as mourners decorated with flowers the graves of both the Union and Confederate soldiers. In the last 100 years alone, more than 600,000 American men and women have given their lives so that we all may live in freedom.
This year, it is more than appropriate that we pause and consciously remember and honor those who have served in our nation’s defense and those who have made the ultimate personal sacrifice for our freedoms. Take time to reflect upon the lives of those who have gone before us to their eternal reward. Give thanks to God for what religious freedoms we still enjoy.
As we do, also remember the one who gave His life for our ultimate and eternal freedom (Gal. 2:20), as expressed in these lyrics by Kurt Kaiser.
“O How He Loves You and Me”
Jesus to Calvary did go, His love for sinners to show./ What He did there brought hope from despair./ O how He loves you; O how He loves me;/ O how He loves you and me!
