A Day to Remember

“Since we have so great a cloud of witnesses surrounding us, let’s rid ourselves of every obstacle and the sin which so easily entangles us, and let’s run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking only at Jesus.” – Hebrews 12:1-2 NASB

On May 30, 1868, Commander in Chief John A. Logan of the Grand Army proclaimed that a day be set aside to honor those who died “in defense of their country” during the American Civil War. This memorial day was first known as Decoration Day, a time to remember those who had died in that conflict on both sides.

This national call for remembrance was preceded by the Southern states electing to honor their own dead from the Civil War. Gradually this celebration become accepted as a national day to remember all Americans who died in all wars. (We now celebrate Memorial Day on the last Monday in May following an act of Congress in 1971.)

We pause to remember on days like this because it is easy to take the blessings of life for granted and forget how much we owe to others. We also commemorate the many freedoms and conveniences we enjoy and often take for granted.

Hebrews reminds us about the great cloud of witnesses that surrounds us: martyrs who defended the faith, people who prayed, preached, sacrificed, and refused to compromise, including people who have shared their testimony. We need to be grateful for their lives.

Think about all the people who have been influential in your spiritual life. Be thankful for their impact. And remember to be an example, so others might come to know Jesus through your life.

Reflection Question: Reflect on the lives of those who have been influential in your own life.