So it’s Memorial Day Weekend…the first official holiday of the summer.  Americans are gearing up for cookouts and drinking parties to celebrate.  I’m sure many are just looking to enjoy the day off and spending some time with friends and family.  I’m one to enjoy a nice day off like every other working person.

I am concerned with the lack of understanding of this or really any other holiday.  Think about it, many forget that it is because of the birth of Christ that we celebrate Christmas and since when id a bunny rabbit come to symbolize the resurrection of Jesus from the grave?  Since when did fireworks become a party instead of honoring those who fought for our freedoms.  Many holidays are mere excuses to have fun, party, and relax.  Now, don’t think that I am not one to want to have fun or relax.  These are all important to our mental health.  I believe that God thinks so to.  That’s why He instituted celebrations and days of rest.  Who am I to go against His wishes?

In the midst of all of the fun and festivities, we miss the reason we have these days.  A friend of mine sent me an email the other day with pictures of the graves of American soldiers who have fallen on foreign soil.  Take a look at the National Cemetaries accorss this nation.   Our nation is covered with graves of men who have fallen for our very own freedom.  Whether you agree with a particular war or police action, it still stands true that these men and women were simply doing their duty.  AND I’M THANKFUL FOR THEM!!!!!

My dad is buried in a veteran’s cemetary and it grieves me to see how many servicemen  are simply forgotton.  Why?  Sure, we are all busy.  Sure, we have to move on with our lives.  But at what cost.  I don’t know who said it, but I’ve heard the saying that those who do not learn from history are destined to repeat it.  We must remember where we came from.  I posted a while back about “Stones of Remembrance.”  It is important that we do not forget where we came from.

Not to ever diminish the sacrifice that these brave men and women made for all of us, how could we ever forget the complete atoning work made for us on the cross?  The most quoted scripture is maybe the least understood.  For God so loved that He gave…..that explains it all.  Christian don’t look at the cross enough.  The symbol of suffering is now the focus of life.  The perfect sacrifice on that cross…Jesus Christ…is responsible for my eternal life.

Take time out of your “celebration” this weekend to say a prayer of thanks for those fallen for you.  If you have a relative in one of those veterans cemetaries, make an effort to visit and place flowers there.  It’s because of them that you are here.

Don’t forget to thank God for His gift of life.  I am so thakful for what He has done.  All I can say is THANK YOU FOR THE CROSS