Devotionals by Raul Ries

MONDAY May 25, 2026

Memorial Day

All these men of war, who could keep ranks, came to Hebron with a loyal heart, to make David king over all Israel; and all the rest of Israel were of one mind to make David king.
1 Chronicles 12:38

Are you aware of the true meaning of Memorial Day? It is nice to have a three-day weekend, but what of the sacrifices made to make this long weekend possible? Memorial Day is a national holiday in which we honor those in military service who have died fighting a war for our freedom.

Initially, Memorial Day was observed on May 30; however, in 1971, it became a national holiday when Congress decided to change the date to the last Monday of May, in order to create a three-day weekend. It was Major General John A. Logan, a Civil War Veteran, who founded Memorial Day in 1868.

After the Civil War ended, a small group of women honored the soldiers of both the North and the South by placing flowers on their graves. It was important not to forget their tremendous sacrifices. Therefore, Memorial Day was first known as Decoration Day, as the graves of the fallen were decorated with flowers and flags.

Since then, the day was expanded to honor all those who have died in American wars. As you enjoy your family and friends on this Memorial Day, take time to pray for families who have lost loved ones in the military. Recently, at least 13 US service members have died during the Iran conflict. They paid the ultimate price––they gave their lives. Continually intercede for our great men and women of war who serve in the military. They willingly place their lives in danger for our freedom and safety.

Those who have long enjoyed such privileges as we enjoy forget in time that men have died to win them.
~President Franklin D. Roosevelt~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!