This weekend, we celebrate one of the most important holidays in the United States – Memorial Day.

Memorial Day was begun after the Civil War, when wreaths were placed on graves in a celebration known as “Decoration Day” at Arlington Cemetery on May 30, 1868. Shortly after, numerous American cities held parades and many laid claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day.

People often confuse Memorial Day and Veterans Day. Veterans Day acknowledges the service of all veterans, living and dead. The holiday we celebrate this weekend is a celebration of those who gave their lives in service to this country.

I don’t often like to conflate patriotism and faith, because that can lead to some unintended confusion. But in the case of Memorial Day, we are faced with the very sacrifice that our Lord Jesus gave for us. In John 15:13, Jesus says, “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.” What is remarkable about Memorial Day is that most men and women who gave their lives didn’t know most of the people for whom they give their lives.
And while it may be fun to kick off summer with picnics and pool parties, while it might be useful to have an “extra day” this weekend to catch up on the house, remember why we have this day – to remember the sacrifice of those who gave everything for their country. And may that remembrance cause each one of us to give thanks for the greatest sacrifice, that of our Lord Jesus, who loved us and gave his life for us.

Happy Memorial Day,

Pastor John

Exciting News! There are still copies available of Pastor John Bethard’s Walking with Conviction: Sermons about Trouble and Grace. Signed copies are available from the church office for $18, with all proceeds dedicated to the Save the Steeple fund. Please contact the church office if you are interested in purchasing a copy.

Reminder, our schedule change is fast approaching! Beginning June 2, we will be meeting on Sundays according to the schedule below:
Worship – 9:45AM
Children’s Sunday School – 11:00AM
Adult Sunday School – 8:30AM (Yokefellows)
& 11:00AM