Sermon illustration for memorial day

Memorial Day holds a special meaning to many in our country. May 30 is
observed in the United States in commemoration of those members of the armed
forces killed in war. I know that there are many in our land that also would
prefer not to think of the harsh realities of war, of lost friend, sons,
daughters, husbands and wives. Yet, it is a reality of life and I for one am
proud of those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for what they valued
more than life it 'self, our freedom and safety, both yours and mine!

The apostle Paul writes in Romans 13:7 in part, "give respect and honor to
all to whom it is due." I believe that those in the military are deserving
and worthy of respect and honor. The whole passage in Romans 13 talks about
governments being in place because God planned it that way. They provide for
our protection and safety, because God planned for them to do that. In fact
he says to pay your taxes so that they can continue to do the work he
planned.

What's your idea of honoring someone? The military is part of the plan that
God made to protect us and keep us safe and free, surely we should show
honor more that one day a year! Yet, this is the "official" day on which we
recognize those who were willing to give more than just lip service to
something which they held true in their hearts.

I would like to challenge you today to take time more than once a year, to
remember and honor those who have made it possible for you to set and read
these words. Remember them while you still can do so, while they are alive,
but never forgetting those who are gone.

Memorials are good! Each week we have a memorial service for our Lord in the
form of Communion. It has a purpose of helping us never forget the sacrifice
Jesus made in his war with Satan, one in which he willingly gave his life.
The apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 11:23-25: "For I received from the
Lord what I also passed on to you: The Lord Jesus, on the night he was
betrayed, took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and said,
"This is my body, which is for you; do this in remembrance of me." In the
same way, after supper he took the cup, saying, "This cup is the new
covenant in my blood; do this, whenever you drink it, in remembrance of me."

That's what Memorial Day is all about isn't it, remembrance! In our desire
to honor the fallen, don't forget to remember our Lord also. Not just once a
year, but every day of every year.

Russ Lawson