This coming week (May 25) we will celebrate Memorial Day. This is the day that we as Americans set aside to remember all of those who have given their lives fighting for the freedoms we so richly enjoy. I am thankful that we as a nation set aside this very special day in memory of our fallen heroes. We also thank those who are currently serving in our nation's armed forces as well as all of our veterans. To all of our veterans and current servicemen and women thank you for your service and sacrifice in defense of this great nation.
Jesus said in John 15:13, "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." This is a verse that is sometimes quoted when one remembers the ultimate sacrifice given by those in protection of their brothers and comrades in arms. But when Jesus said those words, the greater love he referred to was his own love for his disciples. He would very soon lay down his life voluntarily on the cross for their sins as well as the sins of the whole world.
Paul references this love in Romans 5:6-8 when he writes: "For when we were yet without strength, in due time Christ died for the ungodly. For scarcely for a righteous man will one die: (the Amplified Bible renders this phrase "it is an extraordinary thing for one to give his life even for an upright man") yet peradventure for a good man some would even dare to die. But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us." Let's remember that every other sacrifice ever given by mere men pales in comparison to the ultimate sacrifice of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ. To Him be glory and honor world without end! Amen and amen. Have a great Memorial Day and remember that God loves you and so does First Baptist Church.