It is the official start to the summer season. Millions are hitting the highways on the journey to some choice spot for holiday fun and festivities. For others, it means a backyard celebration with family and friends for a home cookout or picnic. And yet for some, it is perhaps just a day off from work or a trip to the mall to catch some advertised sales event.The core of this special holiday is all about service. It is about those who served their country and fellow citizens to the point of sacrificing their own lives. These are more than worthy of their own special day and one that honors what they did for the benefit of all.
But remembering those who gave their all should also give rise to another memory. It is the sacrifice of just one that amazingly eclipses even what America's past military heroes have collectively done. And it is truly the ultimate in loving and serving others. This divine act originated from none other than the very One who created everyone and everything – Jesus Christ. The writer of Philippians spelled out quite vividly what God did for those He created and loves beyond comprehension. And the passage itself begins with an admonition for His followers to have the same attitude of sacrificial service as did their Savior.
"Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus, who, being in the form of God, did not consider it robbery to be equal with God, but made Himself of no reputation, taking the form of a bond-servant, and coming in the likeness of men. And being found in appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became obedient to the point of death, even the death of the cross." (Philippians 2:5-8)
On this Memorial Day, and if you are a Christian, do take time to be thankful for both of the above mentioned sacrifices. One has granted you unmatched physical freedom and the other priceless spiritual liberty. Taken together, they represent the most blessed way of life this side of Heaven.
Never take either for granted knowing that, while what Christ did for you is forever secure, even a great country like ours is subject to decline and ruin. So do pray this weekend that the Lord, who has mightily "shed His grace" on America, is never ever forgotten. And pray fervently that this amazingly blessed nation will continue prospering with God being rightfully honored and the wise words of Proverbs being carefully applied.
"Righteousness exalts a nation, But sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)
Have a great and blessed holiday!
Bill Breckenridge
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