MONDAY May 30, 2022
Memorial Day
Stand fast therefore in the liberty by which Christ has made us free, and do not be entangled again with a yoke of bondage.
Galatians 5:1
Historically in 1868, Memorial Day was first called Decorations Day. It was a day to honor the fallen soldiers of the Civil War. In the Arlington National Cemetery, at least 5,000 people gathered at the gravesite of over 20,000 Union and Confederate soldiers. They respectfully decorated each grave.
Later, the day was changed and called Memorial Day. It became a day to honor all of our men and women who died in war. Memorial Day became an official holiday in 1971. It was traditionally observed on May 30, but now it is on the last Monday in May, making the observance a three-day weekend. Most people appreciate an extra day off from work and cherish the quality family time.
This day is also seen to mark the beginning of summer. More than ever, with wars and unrest in this conflicted world, we must appreciate the wonderful freedoms we enjoy in America. They are a direct result of the unselfish sacrifices of men and women who willingly died while serving their country. America is known as “the land of the free and the home of the brave.” It is important to honor our fallen heroes. Freedom is not free––someone has to pay the ultimate price.
Those who have lost loved ones feel that every day is a Memorial Day. Consider the freedoms we have gained as Christians. Death and sin have been defeated by Christ. He paid the ultimate price by dying on the Cross for our sins (1 Corinthians 15:55-57). Think about it. Are you enjoying your Christian freedoms won by Christ, or are you still living in bondage to your sin?
The price of freedom may be high, but never so costly as the loss of freedom.
~Ronald Reagan~
For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!
