Memorial Day(s)
1 Corinthians 11:24 & 25
Do this …in remembrance of me.
This coming Monday (last Monday in May) is designated “Memorial Day” for Americans to remember the deaths of men and women who gave their lives for our nation in wars past. The battles and wars in which they were sacrificed have preserved our freedoms to enjoy today. Remembering them for their sacrifice keeps alive the need to continue as a people in strength and perseverance for those freedoms to continue.
Jesus gave the command to remember his sacrifice that won the ultimate freedom from sin, death and the grave. In his sacrifice (from conception to death on the cross) he won not just a momentary battle or war, but the war against sin, death and the devil for all eternity. It is faith in God’s love in his sacrifice that gives each believer this eternal victory over sin, death and hell. God does not want any one person to ever forget or to lose faith in this sacrifice that gives true peace and eternal life to all who believe.
Paul continues writing, “For as often as you eat this bread and drink the cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death until he comes,” [v. 26]. Each time the Lord’s Supper is celebrated is a Memorial Day, a day of gladness and thanksgiving for Jesus’ ultimate sacrifice that is given for and to each one. Each day in a Christian’s life is a Memorial Day rejoicing in God’s love in Jesus Christ, His Son, our Lord and Savior who has paid the price and won the victory that frees each believer freedom from the bondage and now gives eternal life that comes only through him. One never wants to forget this joy, this free and unending gift.
On Memorial Day, flags are placed on gravesites and are flown high. Each day being a Memorial Day, Christians lift up the banner of victory, the cross on which all are saved.
Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim
Till all the world adore His sacred name.
Led on their way by this triumphant sign,
The hosts of God in conqu’ring ranks combine.
So shall our song of triumph ever be:
Praise to the Crucified for victory!
Lift high the cross, the love of Christ proclaim
Till all the world adore His sacred name.
“Lift High the Cross” from Lutheran Service Book (#837) © 2006 Concordia Publishing House.
(Devotion by Pastor Richard Mau, Immanuel Lutheran Church)
The coming week @ Immanuel
Sunday, May 29
Divine Services @ 8 and 10 AM (Note the time change)
This week’s Theme: Living Gracefully
Wednesday, June 1 – no midweek service
Closing Chapel for School: 9:30 AM
Thursday, June 2 – Ascension Day
Service @ Good Shepherd: 7:00 PM
Join in fellowship w/ Good Shepherd & St. John
