Jesus said in John 15:13, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” This month, we remember those who have laid down their lives for their fellow comrades in arms, their country, and their loved ones back home.
We can become so accustomed to a truth that it loses its depth of meaning. The news about casualties and conflicts in our world becomes so routine that it stops being about people. It becomes just another piece of information, another “sound byte,” in a world full of sounds and massive amounts of information.
But on one weekend a year, we stop what we are doing, observe moments of silence, and remember. Remember a mother crying when she heard the news, a wife screaming when told of her husband’s sacrifice, a child looking, with tears in their eyes and puzzlement on their face, wondering why daddy will never come home. Men and women have, throughout our history, paid the ultimate price for love of country, family, and freedom.
Most of us will never be asked to serve in harm’s way, but we can show our love and appreciation to those who have. There is a patriotic song which says, “All gave some and some gave all.” Perhaps you know of someone who had a loved one that “gave all.” Or maybe you know someone who recently “gave some” by serving overseas for our country.
If so, then you can “lay down” your life in a small way by going out of your way to serve them and let them know they are remembered and very much appreciated.
You can make a dessert, buy a meal, send a card, make a phone call, or even stop what you are doing and make a visit. It may not seem like much considering what they have given. But the sacrifice of time, effort, and money on your part demonstrates a love and appreciation often lost in the celebrations and activities of the holiday. And it will mean so much to those who have served or lost loved ones in service.
In a world where love is defined by “What can you do for me?” we can restore Christ’s definition and make it more about “What can I do for you?” We can remember that there is “no greater love,” and express our heartfelt response. Have a great (and meaningful) Memorial Day.