The month of May marks the celebration of Memorial Day, a day proclaimed on May 5, 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic.  It was first observed on May 30, 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states.

      In the NIV Bible, the word “remember” appears over 230 times.  Many of the scriptures refer to God asking His people to remember His love and mercy, even when they had drifted away from His path.

      As our nation commemorates U.S. men and women who died while in the military service, so I would like to invite you as a believer to remember all that grace and favor that the Almighty God has bestowed upon us.

      How easy it is for God’s children to forget all the kindness and mercy our Lord has shown us.  We recently hear the testimony in our church of a mother and daughter that had been struck by a tragic family ordeal.  In a matter of 30 days, they had lost a brother, son, and son-in-law.  Yet, in them midst of a pain that has yet to heal completely, they were able to find comfort in God and in His promises.

      So often, we complain about what we don’t have, forgetting to count our blessings and celebrate what we DO have.  Most of us would have to thank God for our two feet, arms, lungs, eyes, ears, etc.  Even the fact that we can breathe on our own, while others need the assistance of an oxygen tank is a reason to give Him thanks.  Often we become desperate because we do not get a quick answer to a certain prayer and we forget all the other ones He has answered.

      This Memorial Day, let us remember our men and women that have served our country proudly while answering the call to service by serving in the military.  But let us also remember all the great things God has done for us.  When you’re feeling down, when you want to give up and you feel like His hand is not on your behalf, remember…

Jesus touched people and healed them – He’ll heal you too.
Jesus raised people from the dead – He’ll give life to your dreams.
Jesus walked on water – He’ll make you walk over your impossibilities.
Jesus fed the multitudes – He’ll take care of you.
Jesus paid your sin debt – You are now saved by grace.
Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father – He is interceding for you.
Jesus listens to the cry of your heart – He will answer your plea.
Jesus loves you with an everlasting love – His mercies are new everyday.

            Just remember, “He is the same yesterday, today and forever.”  Hebrews 13:8.  Happy Memorial Day! 

In His Service,

Pastor Peter Ramos