Greater love hath no man than that he lay down his life for another. Memorial Day in the US celebrates those that have paid that ultimate sacrifice that me may enjoy the freedoms and blessings of living here. The families that lost these love ones also made that ultimate sacrifice-their lives were forever changed.
Yesterday, I spoke at church on charity. I did not talk about charitable acts or contributions, but mostly on charity as an active form of love. In a variety of scriptures, we are promised many blessings and protection as we exercise charity or develop the pure love of Christ. One of the scriptural definitions of charity is the pure love of Christ.
When we are able to love others as Christ loves us, we are demonstrating His love. When we accept others, with their quirks and foibles, and can love them anyway, we are learning to love as He loves.
Those that have given their lives to allow us to live ours have demonstrated that charity. This includes soldiers, first responders, and others that lay down their lives to save others. Those attempting to help in Nepal after the disastrous earthquake are examples of that love. Those lost, such as the helicopter squad, paid the ultimate price for their service.
As we enjoy our freedoms, perhaps with parades, barbecues, or the 'unofficial' start to summer, let us remember and give thanks to those who have made this celebration possible. We are truly blessed by their love and sacrifice.
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