Sacrifice

He is the atoning sacrifice for our sins, and not only for ours but also for the sins of the whole world…” (1 John 2:2)

Memorial Day is the unofficial start of summer in the US. Here in Oklahoma, people cook out, go to the lake, shop the sales, and use this weekend as a springboard to start summer vacations.

But do you know the real meaning behind Memorial Day? It started after the Civil War to honor the men and women who died while serving in the military. Many of my family members served in various branches of the military during Vietnam, including my dad, his brothers Scott and Rod, and my mom’s brother David. Before them, my dad’s grandfather was in the Coast Guard. Many of my cousins have served and are still serving, and I’m thankful for the sacrifice of each one of their families as they wait here at home for their soldiers to return.

We often take for granted the sacrifices our military members make. We enjoy freedoms unlike any other nation because men and women were willing to die for the cause. We celebrate their sacrifice with a parade once a year, and it gets overshadowed by the summer activities to which we’ve become so accustomed.

Another sacrifice we often take for granted is the sacrifice Jesus made for us when he died on the cross for our sins. When we recognize his sacrifice and give our lives to him, he gives us true freedom. That is something worth celebrating.

Dear Jesus, thank you that we live in a country that values freedom and that so many have been willing to sacrifice for that freedom. Thank you for offering us the ultimate freedom through you. Amen.