Every year Memorial Day comes and goes and is often marked by parades, backyard picnics and the onset of warm summer days. But this Memorial Day, the pageantry will be limited with many of us around the United States still sheltering in place.
Nevertheless, I want to remind Americans that it is still a day to pause and reflect on the sacrifice of those who have made us free. In fact, with many of the usual trappings and traditions absent this year, perhaps it will give us some more free time to spend our day in thanksgiving to God for the many brave men and women who’ve sacrificed everything for our peaceful way of life.
I’ve spent much of my adult life leading a church in a military community in Southern California, Shadow Mountain Community Church. At Shadow Mountain, we proudly celebrate the sacrifice of our armed forces. Being a pastor in a community like this inevitably results in gaining a profound respect for our men and women who put their lives on the line — especially for those who’ve paid the ultimate price for their country and our freedom.
It has also taught me to never take this day for granted.
Read more at Less pageantry this Memorial Day offers more time to reflect.
Dr. David Jeremiah is among the best known Christian leaders in the world. He serves as senior pastor of Shadow Mountain Community Church in El Cajon, California and is the founder and host of Turning Point. Turning Point‘s 30-minute radio program is heard on more than 2,200 radio stations daily. A New York Times bestselling author and Gold Medallion winner, he has written more than fifty books.
