Notes of Faith May 26, 2025
As we gather with family, attend parades, and place flags at the graves of fallen soldiers, Memorial Day offers a sacred opportunity to reflect not only on national sacrifice but also on the ultimate sacrifice made by Jesus Christ. While this day is a time of remembrance for those who gave their lives in military service, it can also be a day for deeper spiritual reflection— each Memorial Day message is a chance to consider the ways in which Christ’s example of self-giving love continues to shape our understanding of service, sacrifice, and eternal hope.
Join me to honor the memory of those who died for our country while anchoring our gratitude in the unshakable truth of the gospel.
True love lays down its life for others
Jesus said, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends” (John 15:13). This verse is often quoted on Memorial Day, and for good reason… It captures the heart of both the soldier’s calling and Christ’s redemptive act. When we remember those who gave their lives in service, we see a reflection of the selfless love Christ demonstrated on the cross.
Remembering is a sacred act
Throughout Scripture, God calls His people to remember—remember His faithfulness, His deliverance, and His promises. Memorial Day is not just a national tradition but also a spiritual discipline. A Christ-centered Memorial Day message reminds us that remembering the fallen is an act of honoring both human courage and divine grace.
Peace often comes through sacrifice
The peace we enjoy as citizens has been paid for with the lives of others. Similarly, the peace we have with God came through the blood of Jesus. “For He Himself is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14). Let this Memorial Day be a time to reflect on how God brings peace not through ease, but through costly love.
Grief and gratitude can coexist
It is possible—and healthy—to hold sorrow and thankfulness at the same time. Jesus wept at the tomb of Lazarus even though He would raise him moments later. We, too, can grieve the loss of brave men and women while offering thanks for their courage. This tension is part of the Christian walk.
Freedom is a gift, not a guarantee
Both civic and spiritual freedom come at a high cost. While we honor those who fought for our nation’s liberty, we also remember that our eternal freedom was secured by Christ. “It is for freedom that Christ has set us free” (Galatians 5:1). This Memorial Day message is a call to steward our freedoms with wisdom and humility.
Hope transcends the grave
Memorial Day inevitably brings us face to face with death. But as believers, we do not mourn as those without hope. “If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord” (Romans 14:8). The resurrection of Jesus assures us that death is not the end, for those who die in faith will rise again.
Serve others as Christ served
On a day devoted to honoring those who served, we are reminded of Christ’s teaching: “Whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant” (Mark 10:43). May we use this day not only to remember but to renew our commitment to serve others selflessly, just as Jesus and so many brave men and women have done.
Pray for those who mourn
A Memorial Day message grounded in Christ should include intercession. Many families carry the weight of loss long after the final note of Taps is played. Let us pray for comfort, strength, and peace for those grieving a spouse, parent, sibling, or friend who never returned home.
Fix your eyes on eternal victory
While we honor earthly heroes, we must not lose sight of our heavenly hope. Memorial Day is a poignant reminder that this world is not our home. “But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57). Through Christ, every sacrifice finds its ultimate meaning, and every tear will one day be wiped away.
As you reflect on this day of remembrance, may these Christ-centered messages deepen your gratitude, strengthen your hope, and draw you closer to the heart of God. Let your Memorial Day message be one that honors the fallen and glorifies the risen Savior.
Pastor Dale