As a child Memorial Day marked the day our family picked cherries and began preserving them for the coming year as we listened to the vroom of race cars coming from the big family radio as the Indianapolis 500 progressed. Today this holiday has a much richer and more sobering meaning for me.
Our grandson Gabriel at his father's gravesite on Memorial Day.
Ten years ago when our son-in-law was killed in action in Iraq the true meaning and purpose of Memorial Day suddenly became clear and meaningful. All the wonderful freedoms we enjoy in America have been preserved for us by men and women who were willing to give their lives in the process. Truly, freedom is not free.
An even greater freedom has been purchased by Jesus' death on the cross for us. John 8:31-32 So Jesus said to the Jews who had believed him, "If you abide in my word, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free." But, this freedom is forever--freedom from the consequences that were due us because of our selfish thoughts and actions. And freedom to do all that makes a life blessed--His will.