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4 simple ways to observe Memorial Day

May 27, 2012 — 7 Comments

Courtesy of Peter Liu Photography

Tomorrow is Memorial Day.

In spite of its seemingly self-explanatory name, this holiday is frequently confused with Veterans Day. While it is completely appropriate to honor all who have served or who are currently serving in our armed forces, Memorial Day is special in that it is set aside to remember the thousands of men and women who have died fighting for our freedom. The history of the holiday dates back to the Civil War, when women and children from both the North and the South decorated the graves of fallen soldiers and commemorated the loss of life.

Though not sanctioned as an official federal holiday until 1967, Memorial Day has evolved into a day that marks the beginning of summer. As such, the purpose of the holiday has unfortunately been overshadowed by backyard barbecues and family get-aways.

President Ronald Reagan once said,

“Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn’t pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same.”

This Memorial Day I encourage you to set aside some time to truly reflect on the ultimate sacrifice that has been made by more than a million men and women. Here are four ideas to point you in the right direction:

1. Pray for the families of fallen soldiers. These families have also suffered great loss, and such loss merits an acknowledgement. You might even make a phone call or write a note of gratitude to one such family.

2. Watch a YouTube video about Memorial Day. There are a number of well-done videos, slideshows, and short documentaries that are easily searchable on the web.

3. Attend a parade or special commemoration service. There is usually at least one such event planned in almost every community.

4. Fly the American flag. It seems like such a simple thing, but I’m always moved by the many American flags that show up in various places on Memorial Day weekend.

Whatever we do, we must never forget the sacrifice of our brave men and women.

IT’S YOUR TURN!
How will you observe Memorial Day?

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5 things I’ve learned in times of crisis

May 21, 2012 — 2 Comments

I spent this past Friday night and Saturday in Mississippi with my family. It was just the kids and me this time, since Michelle had a women’s ministry meeting scheduled. On Saturday we got up early and spent most of the morning fishing with my brother and his wife. The kids had a ball!

As we made our way back to Little Rock on Saturday evening, I received a phone call from my dad to let me know that an uncle (my mom’s sister’s husband) had been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident. As I processed this new information, I couldn’t help but think about how significant his injuries must be to warrant flying him by helicopter to the hospital in Tupelo and from there to the trauma center in Memphis.

After dropping off the kids at the house, I showered and shaved, refreshed my overnight bag, and headed out to be with my aunt and her sons. Spending time with family in the hospital provides a different perspective. It’s important to identify lessons from our life experiences. Here are a few of the ones I’ve been reminded of over the past few days:

1. Life is unpredictable. We never know what each day will bring. We are not in control; God is. Lives can be forever changed in one moment’s time. James 4:14 says, “You do not know what tomorrow will bring. What is your life? For you are a mist that appears for a little time and then vanishes.” (ESV)

2. God is always present. Even during times that are dark, when we feel all alone, there’s no place we can go to escape His presence. Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” (ESV) I really like the way the New International Reader’s Version puts it: “God is our place of safety. He gives us strength. He is always there to help us in times of trouble.”

3. Storms of life provide a new perspective. Isn’t it funny how the little things that trouble us each day seem so incredibly insignificant when a major trial comes our way? People of every nation, race, background, and religion status experience very real problems from time to time. Pain, laughter, and music are universal languages.

4. Waiting is never easy. Whether we’re waiting to hear a medical update on a loved one’s condition, waiting on test results, or waiting on God to take away the pain, fear, and anxiety, it’s always hard to wait. Anxiety builds in the absence of information. No news is not always good news. And our patience is often pushed to the breaking point.

5. True friends are always there. In times of great difficulty, I’ve been reminded over and again how many people love me, care for me, and pray for me. Even when no words can change the situation, just having friends ‘be there’ makes a world of difference.

This song reminds me to trust God even when difficulties arise. I hope it will bless your heart.

My uncle remains in very critical condition. Thank you for your prayers for my family.

IT’S YOUR TURN!
What are some lessons you have learned in times of crisis?

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