MEMORIAL WORDS

Rick Jackson

Though there is some ambiguity concerning the exact origin of Memorial Day most historians agree it started during or shortly after the War Between the States. The exact history of the day need not be known to appreciate what it really means. I am not talking about barbecues, days off, and sales at various stores. I can write these words because my father, a World War II recipient of the Purple Heart came home. Many didn't. Those that gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country are the ones we are supposed to honor on this Memorial Day. They gave their all and we all enjoy the freedom their sacrifice made possible.

What powerful words: SACRIFICE, HONOR, FREEDOM.

The ultimate meaning of these words goes back farther than an American War. There would be no America had there not been a Bible, and the Christ of the Bible. If Americans forget their Christian heritage they lose a large part or what made her what she is.

I. SACRIFCE

1. The Greatest Sacrifice (I Cor. 5:7, Heb. 7:27, 9:26, 10:11-12)

2. The Greatest Motive (Rm. 5:6-8, Eph. 5:2)

3. The Greatest Response (Rm. 12:1, Heb. 13:15-16)

II. FREEDOM

1. True freedom is "free from something" (Rm. 6:18-23, 8:2, Gal. 5:1)

2. True freedom isn't free (Rm. 3:23-24, 5:15-18) Christ had to pay for it!

3. True freedom is free (Rev. 21:6, 22:17)

III. HONOR

1. True honor is honestly heartfelt (Mt. 15:8, Rev. 19:7)

2. True honor perceives position (Jn. 5:23, 8:49-54, Eph. 6:2, I Tm. 1:7, 6:16, I Pt. 3:7, Rev. 4:11, 5:12-13)

3. True honor surrounds service (Jn. 12:26, Rm. 2:7, I Tm. 5:3ff, 5:17, II Tm. 2:20-21)