The announcer went on to explain that Memorial Day is all about remembering and honoring those who have bled and died so we can enjoy our freedoms in this country. He asked for a moment of silence in gratitude to these men and women who gave their all. Yes, those who died in service to our country deserve our remembrance and respect. Without their love and sacrifice, who knows where this nation would be? I will remember.

But what about a Memorial Day for the One who bled and died for my spiritual freedom? The One who willingly, humbly, lovingly suffered unimaginable cruelty and death so I could enjoy freedom for eternity? I whispered my thanks to Him for His sacrifice that enables me to live, free from captivity and slavery and bondage to sin and eternal death. I will remember!

For as long as America has been in existence, we have had enemies, many intent on our destruction. We have also had people who have sacrificed to protect us from terrorists, foreign dictators, religious zealots, or entire nations. We do well to remember their sacrifices.

But we also have a powerful spiritual enemy, intent on our destruction. And we have a Protector who has loved us with an “everlasting love” (Jer. 31:3), who loved us “while we were still sinners” (Rom. 5:8). Let’s honor and remember Him every day for His ultimate act of sacrifice.