Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends. John 15:13

This week I was considering the sacrifice of those who have given their lives for our sake. For the sake of freedom they gave. For the sake of love they died. I was reading the post on Facebook of a young widowed mother now going forth to raise a child on her own as a single mom. Her tribute priceless. She shared videos of her young husband, the joy on his face to serve his country, his family. Yet though there was joy in the memories, there she sat. She is a young mother, pouring out her heart over the man she loved, and the father her daughter lost.

I share this story with you to remind us that Memorial Day is an enormous day to pour out our compassion and care on those around us. Just as those who have served and lost their lives for our freedom have loved, and poured out their lives for us. May we rise to the occasion of showing care, concern, and compassion for our neighbor, our loved ones, and even the stranger. For there are people who on this day, instead of celebrating and rejoicing, they sit behind the scenes remembering the ones they loved. I know personally that a young single mother now sits behind the scenes of this day, remembering the man she fell in love with, looking into the face of her little girl and seeing him.

As I reflect, I consider how quickly a life is turned upside down. How quickly a family can go from hope to grief and hopelessness. Yet as well how quickly a life can be impacted by the power of an unending love. At Acres of Hope we are so grateful for those who have given the ultimate sacrifice of love and dedication so that we can experience freedom.

As you reflect on this day, and remember, I hope you experience the love and hope found in the memories of those who gave it all. We remember with you.

Have a reflective Memorial Day filled with hope.

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