Definition of "memorial" -- something designed to preserve the memory of a person, event, etc., as a monument or a holiday. Of or pertaining to the memory.
Memorial Day is a day set aside on the last Monday in May in most states of the United States of America for observances in memory of dead members of the armed forces of all wars.
While we remember those who have given their lives for us, and for this country we must not forget the most important One who gave His life. He died fighting a war against sin, and He did it willingly because He loves us that much.
In John 16:16, Jesus says, "In a little while you will see me no more, and then after a little while you will see me." He went forward not with the fear that He might be killed, but knowing that He would.
Many of us may keep a cross as a memorial for this act of love.
What do you do as a memorial for your fallen war heroes? Do you wave a flag? Do you have medals displayed? Do you keep old letters? Do you have photographs of them in uniform?
Do you have family members or friends who are still fighting for our freedoms today?
Though this day, Memorial Day, is officially for remembering those lost and gone, and we should take some time to think of them and pray for their families, I would also like to take a moment to appreciate those still here with us and those who continue to give of themselves to serve, often not knowing what will become of them.
My father served in the United States Navy. One of my brothers served as a Lieutenant in the Navy and was stationed at Japan during Operation Enduring Freedom - Philippines. Another brother served in the United States Army as a Gunner on a Hum-V at Iraq as an E-4 Specialist and returned home wounded, yet very much alive. My husband's father served in the United States Marine Corps.
Will you be flying an American flag today? Remember that you should raise the flag to the top of the pole and then immediately lower it to half mast for Memorial Day to honor those who have given and lost their lives.
God bless the United States of America and everyone who has done and continues to do what they can to make it a great country of freedom. I have heard it said that if you do not stand behind our military personnel, then you are welcome to stand in front of them.
That is an awesome laser lightshow....you should post it on FB so everyone can see it.....
ReplyDeleteMemorial Day has become a pretty emotional day for me and my family. Not "emotional" as in sobbing, but as in feeling proud. Over the years, I have had the ability to make lots of friends who have served in the armed forces. My husband served in the U.S. Air Force. My best friend's fiancee spent time in Iraq. My grandfather served in the Air Force. My and my husband's now deceased friend served in the National Guard. And now, currently, my husbands childhood and best friend is still in the service, fighting for our freedoms. We think of all these people daily, but even moreso on Memorial Day. I have read so many touching things posted on FB yesterday, several of which have brought tears to my eyes. Ya know, many people may say not so nice things about our country, but on Memorial Day and Independance Day, when I look around, I can tell that there are more people in our country that feel proud of our fallen and still fighting men and women, than there are that oppose war. There are more people that still have pride in our great nation. 911, I believe, has turned this country's people's faith around, and given us all a good reason to STAND UP for our military personel.
ReplyDeleteTo any soldier reading this blog, I salute you! It takes one heck of a person to do the things you have to do on a daily basis. You ALL hold a special part of my heart, and the hearts of many.
Great Post. I think we get so busy we don't take the time we should to appreciate their sacrifice. For most people, myself included, most Memorial Days my biggest focus is on the fun I will have with my family at the cookout that day. Thanks for bringing some good perspective.
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