As we approach Memorial Day, do we really remember those who have gone before us and provided the quality of life we have grown accustomed to? Do we appreciate their sacrifice and the price paid for the greatest country ever? Are we planning to take a little time between our rush to prepare for the picnic, travel, family, yard work and a variety of other things to thank them in our hearts and pray for their families?
The Bible tells us to give honor to whom honor is due. Romans 13:7, "Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor."
We should never forget those who laid down their lives that we may live in freedom. We should never forget the families they left behind who lost husbands, wives, children, brothers, sisters, mothers and fathers. Because of them we have freedom and liberty to do, to be, and to dream.
There are others who have faced similar battles, who laid down their lives, so we can experience spiritual freedom. Freedom from the bondage of sin and a life separated from God. Jesus died a sinner's death to pay the price for sin, and by His sacrifice we have been made free. John 8:36, "Therefore if the Son makes you free, you shall be free indeed." Without this sacrifice there would be no eternal life.
There is another large group of people who have given their lives for the preservation of the gospel. All the apostles lost their lives, and over the years countless faithful followers of Christ have paid the ultimate price to see others have life. Many Old Testament saints suffered and died for their faith and we are encouraged to look to their example for strength and endurance.
Hebrews 12:1-4, "Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God. For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls. You have not yet resisted to bloodshed, striving against sin."
Let us never forget those who gone before us: those who have died for our national freedom or who have died for our spiritual freedom.
Leo Kruger is pastor of Valley Christian Fellowship and is a member of the Carson Valley Ministers' Association.
