This weekend in the United States we honor those individuals who have given their lives in the defense of freedom around the world. Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic. It was first observed on May 30, 1868 when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. This was in the aftermath of the Civil War when our nation was divided by the issue of slavery and many thousands had lost their lives fighting for what they believed. It has taken a long time for our nation to heal from this devastating division and massive loss of life. Memorial Day is not about division but reconciliation, coming together as a nation to honor those who gave their all for our country.

With malice toward none, with charity for all, with firmness in the right as God gives us to see the right, let us strive on to finish the work we are in; to bind up the nation’s wounds; to care for him who shall have borne the battle, and for his widow and his orphan – to do all which may achieve and cherish a just and lasting peace, among ourselves, and with all nations. (Abraham Lincoln, Second Inaugural Address, 4 March 1865)

Also this weekend, thousands of families are divided by strife. Many casualties lie in the wake of the battle. Slavery is again the issue that has divided home and family; slavery to selfish wants, desires and sin. Many brave souls are fighting courageously to save their families from the destructive forces of the battle. This weekend, let us also pause to remember those valiantly standing for what is right and good and just in the eyes of the Lord; may their sacrifice never be forgotten.

Surely he will never be shaken; a righteous man will be remembered forever.  Psalm 112:6

Jesus Christ, the Word made flesh, came to set the captives free. He gave His life in atonement of the sins of all mankind. He gave us a new covenant in His blood. Believe that His sacrifice will set your spouse free from a life of self-interest and sin. Jesus conquered sin and death once and for all by dying on the cross. Have faith and believe in His suffering, death and resurrection.

As for you, because of the blood of my covenant with you, I will free your prisoners from the waterless pit.  Zechariah 9:11

Those souls fighting for their families and marriages are the unrecognized heroes who bravely fight the enemy without counting the cost. We join with you in the battle against evil and will fight until our dying breaths for the sanctity of families in a world divided by sin and strife. By Christ’s sacrifice on the cross, the enemy is defeated. We pray for homes and families to be restored to all that God intends for them to be.

“Do not be afraid. Stand firm and you will see the deliverance the Lord will bring you today. The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” Exodus 14:13-14

Peace and blessings to you, O warrior for Christ. Your sacrifice is not forgotten.

I have commanded my holy ones; I have summoned my warriors to carry out my wrath -those who rejoice in my triumph. Isaiah 13:3

God Bless America!