Reflecting on Memorial Day

Memorial Day happens in America every year at the end of May. It started right after the Civil War, the highest death toll caused by any war America has fought in. After the war ended, towards the late 1860s, Americans in various towns and cities began holding springtime tributes to the fallen soldiers, decorating their graves with flowers and reciting prayers. In fact, Waterloo, NY, which first celebrated the day on May 5, 1866, was declared the birthplace of Memorial Day because it hosted an annual, community-wide event, during which businesses closed and residents decorated the graves of soldiers with flowers and flags.

Memorial Day is the day we remember those who have fallen in wars and combat missions. Its a day to be grateful for those who have willingly sacrificed their own lives for the freedom of others. It is a day to think about sacrifice and the lives impacted because of the death of a loved one serving our country. It is a very high calling to put your life on the line and sacrifice it for others.

That is why, while many people will be celebrating Memorial Day with family time, BBQs and time at the pools (all good things to do, by the way), make sure you are reflecting on Memorial Day. Take time to remember those in your community, your family, your Church that may have lost someone very special to them. Memorial Day is special day but it can also be hard for people. Reach out to them, pray for them or send them a nice card to let them know you are thinking of them. It could be a great way for you share the love of Christ with them in a way that they have not experienced before.

How are you reflecting on Memorial Day? Who do you think of? Share those you are remembering below or on social media using #ymsidekick.

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