Memorials

Memorial Day at Little Big Horn

Memorials are an important part of life. God had the Hebrews build memorials along their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. Why did God command them to build memorials? So that their children would ask, “Why is that there?” The parents could then use the memorials as “teachable moments.”

As a nation, we have established many memorials over the years. They are all over the U.S. for the purpose of adults and children asking, “Why is that there? What does it mean?” It allows us to tell the story of our nation.

Families establish memorials too. Over the years a family builds memorials at different places. The dinner table is a memorial at our house. We love to gather around it and share stories about the day, dreams for the days ahead, and lots of laughter. Our bedtime tradition is a memorial too. We gather before going to bed, read a story, play a game, pray, and laugh a lot. One of my favorite memorials is on our back deck during the summer. We eat meals outside and then light a fire in the firepit (if the wind is not blowing 1,000 mph). We sit around, look at the moon and stars, roast marshmallows, talk and laugh, and just enjoy being together. What are the memorials in your home now? Growing up?

Fire pit on the back deck

Memorial Day is coming up this weekend. May your family take a moment and give thanks for the men and women who have given their all for our freedom. May their sacrifice remind you of Jesus’ sacrifice for you. May you enjoy that freedom and sacrifice by making a memorial with your family. May it be a weekend that you remember for years to come.