Making it personal …

Many of the heroes we honor this Memorial Day stepped up to serve their country because they love what this nation stands for and were willing to sacrifice themselves for such a cause.

For others who have served or are serving, the initial reason may have been less grandiose. For some, it was employment when they couldn’t find something else. For others, it was for the benefits, especially for a means to go to college. And for others, they were too young to know what they wanted to do with their lives so they followed their buddies into the service. Some were told by the government it was their duty and were drafted.

Regardless of the initial reason, for most who have fought their nation’s battles and those who continue to serve, the reason for serving quickly changes to one of relationships. The idea that brought them into service gives way to serving and fighting for the men and women they serve with.

It gets personal.

It’s that “something personal” that provoked the Creator of all things to wrap Himself in flesh so that He might enter this world and serve us. A service so selfless it led to the last full measure of service, the offering of His life on our behalf.

Not because of any lofty theological ideas. It was personal. He loved us, and so He was willing to live and die for us.

“There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends,” John 15:13.

This weekend we remember and salute, with genuine gratitude, those who have served our country selflessly. Thank you!

May we also remember each and every day the sacrifice Jesus Christ made on our behalf, and respond to His expressed love with obedience and service to Him.

“There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. You are my friends if you do what I command,” John 15:13-14.

Scotty