Let Us Remember ...

Memorial Day — a day to remember.

I had the honor of giving the invocation at our town's annual Memorial Day service today. It's always a bit humbling to be there and today was no different. We were blessed to hear the father of a local fallen soldier speak; blessed because of this strength and passion for helping us to remember all those who have sacrificed in service to our country. He said, and I agree, that too many Americans have forgotten what this day is about.

This day is NOT about picnics, store sales, a day off of work, etc.

This day IS about the thousands and thousands of men and women who have given their lives in service to our country. From the first death in the Revolutionary War to the most recent death in Afghanistan, we must remember all the men and women who have served, and died.

How many of us take time on this day to think about the families of those who have lost loved ones due to war?

How many of us take time to pray for these families?

How many of us take time to give thanks for those who served and gave their lives?

It's so easy to just go on about our lives, forgetting the sacrifices made ... far too easy.

So, this Memorial Day, I want to challenge you to remember. Remember the men and women from your local community, and all the communities around the United States, who have died in service to our country. Remember their families — their parents, their spouses/partners, their children, etc. Remember the men and women who served with them and the memories of loss they carry with them as they continue to serve.

The father who spoke today shared with us a new campaign that is growing across the nation.  It's called "Honor and Remember." I really encourage you to check out the website and get involved, as you are able. We must never forget and we must always honor those who gave their all.  Here's the website: www.honorandremember.org.

May God be with all the families of all those who died in service to our country.  I, for one, will never forget the sacrifices they and their loved ones gave.