“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” — John 15:13 (NIV)

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Memorial Day is more than a long weekend. It’s a sacred pause — a moment for our nation to remember those who gave their lives in military service. These were not just names engraved on marble — they were believers, sons and daughters of God, and often men and women who lived out their faith boldly in uniform.

Their sacrifice mirrors the very heart of our Savior, who gave His life to secure our freedom in eternity. In the same spirit, these service members gave theirs to protect our freedoms here on Earth.

We also remember the Gold Star families — those who continue to carry the weight of loss every day. These parents, spouses, siblings, and children live with an empty seat at the table, a folded flag, and a legacy of sacrifice. As the body of Christ, we are called to bear one another’s burdens (Galatians 6:2) — including theirs.

Let’s reflect on the lives of a few faithful warriors who served Christ and country:

• U.S. Army Captain Russell B. Rippetoe, a Ranger killed in Iraq in 2003, had the words of John 15:13 inscribed on his dog tags. At his funeral, President Bush quoted that same verse to describe his life — a man who lived with purpose and laid it all down for others.
• U.S. Navy SEAL Adam Brown, a devoted Christian, overcame addiction and found redemption in Christ. He was known for reading Scripture before missions and leading his team in prayer. He was killed in Afghanistan in 2010 — but his legacy, told in Fearless by Eric Blehm, continues to inspire.
• U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Joshua “Josh” Birchfield often spoke about his faith and desire to do the right thing. He was killed in action in 2010 in Afghanistan. A young man of deep convictions, he told friends before deployment that he knew God had a plan for him — and he was willing to follow it, even to the end.
• U.S. Air Force Major David Gray, a chaplain, was killed by a suicide bomber in Afghanistan in 2013. He had a profound ministry to fellow airmen and soldiers, praying over troops and counseling many who were far from home and close to combat. His widow later said, “David died doing what he loved — bringing hope and peace to those in darkness.”

These men are just a few among many who wore the uniform and bore the name of Christ with honor. Their stories remind us that faith and service are not mutually exclusive — they are often intertwined in the deepest of ways.

“The memory of the righteous is a blessing.” — Proverbs 10:7 (ESV)

So why do we celebrate Memorial Day?

Because remembering teaches us to value what has been given. Freedom is not free — it is the fruit of courage and sacrifice. Memorial Day is not about glorifying war, but about honoring those who were willing to face its horrors for the sake of others.

Why is it important?

Because forgetting leads to apathy. Memorial Day calls us to live intentionally — to be stewards of freedom, defenders of justice, and ambassadors of peace. It reminds us to support our active-duty military and veterans, to pray for the hurting, and to walk worthy of the sacrifices made on our behalf.

Prayer

Lord, today we remember those who laid down their lives in service to our country — and we lift up their families, the Gold Star families who still bear the cost. We thank You for Christian warriors like Russell, Adam, Josh, and David — who lived for You and died in service to others. May we never forget their sacrifice. Help us live in a way that honors them — and most of all, honors You. May our freedoms always lead to faithfulness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.