Happy Memorial Day!
“Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” —Romans 5:7–8
me·mo·ri·al
“Created or done to honor a person who has died or to remind people of an event in which many people died.” —Merriam Webster Dictionary
Here it is again—a holiday. A day where we can enjoy family time, a BBQ, or some rest. But this holiday did not come cheaply. It is celebrated at a great cost—the highest cost of all—the loss of life.
Our country rightly sets aside a day to honor those who have died in service of their country. Such service is the ultimate sacrifice on behalf of others, selflessly giving their lives and worthy of remembrance.
But in a fast-paced society of instant gratification, heartfelt gratitude is not often given space to be expressed. Holidays of remembrance can become rote unless we are intentional. But holidays like Memorial Day can also be a catalyst where gratitude can be cultivated once again.
Gratitude automatically flows from our lips when we sit to have a meal. It graces our mind and heart when we receive a gift. And when we remember the kindness of those who sacrificed on our behalf, we are humbled and overwhelmed.
Sometimes we express this gratitude halfheartedly, distracted by life’s demands, but then there are those times when we truly recognize the sacrifice of others on our behalf and demonstrate our gratitude through thankfulness and stewardship.
Memorial Day is one such occasion. When we recognize that all we have is at the sacrifice of others, we connect our blessings to those who have served and we no longer take for granted what God has so graciously given to us. We are moved to steward what we have because it came at a high cost.
Memorial Day is an opportunity to bestow honor and praise to God for those who have served. This Memorial Day, pause and take some time to remember those who gave their lives for our country. Consider the consequences of those actions both for them and for us. What blessings do we enjoy now that we might not have? How can we demonstrate gratitude?
As we steward what we have been given and are generous to others from our blessings, we honor the memory of those who gave up their blessings to give us ours. As we consider how we can generate gratitude on Memorial Day, below are some articles to remind us afresh of the purpose behind Memorial Day.
This weekend, I thank God for those who have served our country and paid with their lives. Their sacrifice humbles me and causes me to steward the blessings God has given. We are so blessed to live in this country and have the freedoms we do. I also thank God for you and remember your faithfulness to steward the blessings God has given you.
Yours for Wise Stewardship,
Jeff Rogers
