Lynette Smith - Written 5/29/16

MEMORIAL. Something for a reminder. Remember, don't forget. As we are in the midst of our three and for some, four day holiday weekend for Memorial Day, I am reminded to REMEMBER. To remember the importance of our fallen heroes that have faithfully served and defended our country and our freedoms and who didn't get the chance to hear "Thank you" or see the fruits of their sacrifices. To remember, to stop, and to recognize that our lives that we take for granted didn't come without a cost. Maybe not a cost to us, but a cost to someone. For all, it cost them their comfort and being separated from their families, missed opportunities, and so many other things that a list would go on and on, but for many it cost them everything, it cost them their very last breath.

Jesus, as our example and teacher, tells us to "love one another the way I have loved you" (John 15:12 ESV). He goes on to tell us that the greatest love, the best way to love, is to put your life on the line for your friends, even more, lay it down (John 15:13 MSG, ESV). Jesus did, he put his life on the line for his friends. He took the next step, he laid down his life for his friends. But he didn't stop there, he went as far as he could, he died for those he didn't know; he even died for his enemies. Jesus didn't do it for payment, he didn't do it for recognition. He didn't even require us to love him back. He demonstrated his love for all, and he offered salvation. He still offers an eternal life with him if we'd only accept it.

Just like Jesus, the service men and women of our armed forces put their lives on the line each day for their friends, for their loved ones, even for those that they don't know. What a great sacrifice, what a great love. They might not be able to save us from an eternity separated from God, but as much as humanly possible, they paid an ultimate price. May we never forget as we enjoy our weekend activities and time-off, may we remember them on this Memorial Day.

THANK YOU those that are serving or have served and put your lives on the line for our country's freedoms.

THANK YOU to our fallen heroes, for your sacrifices, for your lives, we won't forget you.

Most importantly, THANK YOU Jesus for your example, your ultimate sacrifice, and your gifts of grace, mercy, love, and eternity with you.