 |
| www.google.com/search?q=pictures+of+our+freedoms |
An article turned up recently about
how Memorial Day started back in 1865 by former slaves who were honoring
257 dead Union Soldiers. It was quite
impressive actually, since they dug up the bodies which were buried in a mass
grave in a prison camp, and then gave them a proper reburial in honor of their
service. A parade followed with singing
and celebration.
As we celebrate Memorial Day 149
years later, I wonder about the legacy these soldiers left as they died for the
Union Cause and those on the other side: the Confederacy, which also believed
they were fighting for a just cause “under God.” Both sides gave so much and while the Union
“won” that horrible war, feelings still can be provoked as to the “real”
winner, depending on where you grew up.
Then there is the legacy the former
slaves left. They began a tradition of
honoring those who fight in battle for the right of freedom. They celebrated after the ceremony and following tradition we celebrate, with barbeques, parades, family get togethers, sports
events, and even our retail markets create all kinds of “Memorial Day sales” in
honor of the holiday.
It made me wonder what kind of
legacy I am leaving. What am I going to
leave behind which holds the most importance?
A legacy can be money or other material goods, but money and other items
lose value and is only an earthly commodity.
A legacy can also be a tradition or something you have learned or can
offer of yourself which makes a meaningful contribution to those
receiving.
If I am going to leave a legacy,
then I want it to be something that matters; something that makes a difference
in people's lives, beyond this life. I
want my legacy to be of the heart and spirit.
If I can touch someone’s heart and mind in a positive way, it is likely
to have a ripple effect that touches the lives of others. That impact can be
felt for generations after we are gone. Isn’t that what living is all
about? Isn’t that what happened from the
first Memorial Day celebration back in 1865?
What of God’s legacy? He provided the ultimate inheritance. He provided us with Jesus, the Holy Spirit,
His Word and ultimately His Kingdom. I
suggest the greatest legacy we can leave, therefore, is spiritual truth to
those around us. It is what means the
most in this life because it is what renders us to God’s Heavenly Kingdom. To share with others a personal encounter
with the One True God can be no greater gift.
As you contemplate the meaning of Memorial
Day, by remembering those who fought for the freedoms we enjoy, I encourage you
to share God’s gift of Jesus with others.
Rewards await you, not just in this world, but in the one to come.
No comments:
Post a Comment