Memorial Day is More Than a Holiday

Inspirational Message

Eugene Petersen, well known for his inspirational writings in a recent book talked about the need most of us have for a sense of belonging.  Now why is that important?  Research validates what every healthy child knows--emotional well-being is enhanced when we know and feel connected in meaningful ways to those around us-and this is where Peterson’s analogy of the Christian Life is worth pondering.  He talks about history as a people through three significant events: the creation story, salvation and community.

This ties in well with some of the holidays we celebrate. For instance Memorial Day.  This day in particular can serve to put a framework around our sense of belonging.  The origins of this holiday sprang from a need for belonging, community and hope.  Relatives of those who died in the Civil War started getting together and gathering at cemeteries to commemorate there fallen loved ones.  By the 20^th Century the last Monday in May became a Federal Holiday and was extended to honor all Americans who had died in all wars. Adds Wikipedia, “…(it) was an occasion for more general expressions of memory, as people visited the graves of their deceased relatives in church cemeteries, whether they had served in the military or not. It also became a long weekend increasingly devoted to shopping, family gatherings, fireworks, trips to the beach, and national media events such as the Indianapolis 500 auto race, held since 1911 on the Sunday of Memorial Day weekend.^{”  (}Matthew Dennis, Red, White, and Blue Letter Days: An American Calendar (2002)

As we honor this day, whether at work or relaxing with friends and families, let’s remember not only all those who died in various wars in the name of liberty, but also as we talk and engage in meaningful activities with those around us, our sense of belonging brought on with these activities inspires the types of connections that enthuse us on the journey toward a life of meaning, purpose and hope. 

Further reading? Galatians 6:2+.

Blessings

Chaplain Leigh