MAY 28, 2025 ~ FROM A PASTOR'S HEART

MAY 28 DEVOTIONAL BIBLE READING:  JOHN 15:12-17

Memorial Day is a day we remember...and though we are not to live in the past, we are called to remember. There are those who gave everything that we might know freedom as a nation. They deserve our gratitude, our respect, and that we remember. It is incredible to consider that there are those who are willing to give up their lives for a cause greater than self. This is especially incredible in this narcissistic, self-centered, "me first" society in which we live. These who gave up their lives for others and for their country were ordinary people who did extraordinary things. That's why we call them heroes. Freedom is so precious that they were willing to give up their freedom and even their lives that others might experience it. We remember those who showed the greatest kind of love. Jesus said, "Greater love has no one than to lay down their life for another." On this Memorial Day, we remember those who didn't necessarily intend to become heroes, but did because they loved others and freedom enough to pay the ultimate sacrifice.

The greatest example of selfless love for genuine freedom is Jesus. He intentionally left heaven where He was worshiped and honored because we were enslaved by our sin. He came to a world that would reject Him. He came to die on a cruel cross. He did this because the only way we could be free of sin was for Him to come. He came knowing what He would face for our sin. He came knowing that most would reject His sacrifice and ignore His love. He came anyway, because of His great love for us. He did not die to become a martyr. He died as a sacrifice; He died in our place. Once the price was paid, He overcame death for Himself and for all who believe in Him by His Resurrection. On this day of remembrance, remember the cross, remember the nail pierced hands, and remember the Savior who faced the eternal punishment of God for you...that you might know true freedom!

Please share your thoughts.