On This Memorial Day Weekend

John 15:12-13 New Revised Standard Version

12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

Thoughts

The story of Memorial Day goes something like this; In Boalsburg, Pennsylvania, there were three young women, Emma Hunter, Sophie Keller and Elizabeth Myers. They began decorating soldiers’ graves in 1864, while the Civil War was still being fought. They wanted to recognize the contributions of villagers who had paid the ultimate price, and they did it with what was at hand, some homegrown flowers. This started the tradition of decorating the graves of soldiers to remember them for giving their lives. In the same manner Christ gave his life for all of us. The ultimate sacrifice of a friend. His selfless love inspires us to love others and serve with a humble heart. 

Take time this weekend to remember those soldiers both past and present. Pray for peace, for the comfort of families of those who have died and pray for the strength and protection of those currently serving. 

Prayer

Heavenly Father, on this Memorial Day, we pray for those who courageously laid down their lives for the cause of freedom. May the example of their sacrifice inspire in us the selfless love of your Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Bless the families of our fallen troops, and fill their homes and their lives with your strength and peace. In union with people of goodwill of every nation, embolden us to answer the call to work for peace and justice, and thus, seek an end to violence and conflict around the globe. We pray through Christ our Lord. Amen.  [Devotions of the Heart]