“Remember” is a word that is glibly tossed around in common conversation with family and friends. “Remember” when we did that one thing that one time, or “remember” that pie, or “remember” that moment that I did something I wish I could forget. Like many words that we use daily, we often don’t think about the significance of what they mean. The dictionary offers many different definitions, but one I like was “something that serves to keep in mind or bring to mind.”
On a day when most people are just excited to have an extra day off of work or to enjoy the lake, there should be a serious tone to our memories about what this day means to other people. This day brings back memories of a loved one that served and perhaps died serving for my freedom. This day brings back painful memories for war veterans of the things they saw, the battles they faced, and the comrades they lost. This day also makes me somber to think how much we either don’t care to remember or don’t care. Is there a thought in my daily life of the sacrifice that was done on my behalf by fellow Americans?
And yet, there is another “in remembrance” that I also take for granted and carelessly ignore. My ultimate freedom from eternal death beause of my sin is also to be remembered more than just once per month at church during a communion service. Is there a thought in my daily life of the sacrifice for me by Jesus?
I feel like there is a deeper meaning to “remember” that we have lost. If I truly remember that time I totally messed something up, I probably won’t do that again. If I truly remember how excited I was at the joy of having a child, I am going to appreciate that child more. If I truly remember how grateful I was for that friend’s encouragement at that one moment, I am going to be a better friend. If I truly remember the magnitude of Jesus’ death on the cross on MY behalf, I am going to be more motivated to avoid sin.
If I truly remember that someone died so that I can freely have a peaceful day with my family today, I am going to honor them by honoring the freedom for which they fought. If I truly remember their sacrifice, I will NOT take it for granted and live like my comfort is more important than “liberty and justice for all.”