Three colors.  Thirteen stripes.  Fifty stars.  Though its outward appearance may be a humble collection of cloth stitched together, the American flag is a symbol of life, liberty, and justice for all.  This flag has been waved proudly and it has also been burned with hatred.  Throughout America’s history, this flag has literally made its way to the moon and back.  It has marched down city streets and flies high above our nation’s capital.  On Memorial Day, however, we remember this flag in a different manner.

When folded into a triangle and presented to a mother, father, husband, wife, son, or daughter at a funeral, this flag represents a life lost.  A life lived to the fullest, but cut too short.  Think about it.  There are hundreds of thousands of men and women who served their country and never made it home.  They had hopes and dreams for their future.  Perhaps they wanted to marry their childhood sweetheart, raise a family, or buy a house.  But one decision cost it all.  They decided to put their life on the line to help ensure our safety and freedom in America.  While defending our lives, they lost their own.


This Memorial Day, I encourage you to enjoy the backyard barbeques and much-needed rest and relaxation.  But above all, I urge you to cherish the time you have with your friends and family.  As the family and friends of fallen soldiers will tell you, you never know how much time you’ll have with them.  Be sure to say a prayer for these families, as I am sure today is especially hard for them.  And be sure to pray for the service men and women who are fighting for our freedom even today.  Let’s pray that they come home waving the flag proudly, so we can thank them personally for the priceless gift they are giving to you and me: freedom.

In Christ’s Love,
Jennifer