Memorial Day, Memorial weekend.  A time to pause and remember the ultimate sacrifices made for the freedoms we embrace and enjoy.  A time to remember our loved ones, family and friends that are no longer here on earth with us - a painful reminder of our loss and deep love for them.  For those that have suffered loss recently the pain and memory of our loss is way too fresh.  For those whose loss has been long ago the pain has been mitigated but their memory still fresh.  Although painful, it is good to remember, as long as it does not keep us from moving forward.  We honor our loved ones by remembering, but also by moving forward with the life we have been given.  Life is the most precious gift from our creator, but we are all fully aware it is not lived void of pain and loss.  God will help to mitigate your loss and pain if you sincerely look to Him and His Word.  Jesus came preciously to defeat sin and the grave.  There is not only hope, but God’s own promise that those who believe and receive His Son Jesus Christ will inherit eternal life.  Jesus said, “I am the resurrection and the life.  He who believes in Me, though he may die, he shall live.  And whoever lives and believes in Me shall never die.” (John 11:25-26)   Jesus says to remember His life, remember His blood shed for your sins.  Never forget the price paid at calvary. (cf. 1 Cor. 11: 23-26)  Also, remember He is coming again to stop time as we know it and to usher in eternity for all eternity - He will make all things new!

Yes, remember and honor those that have gone on, but also live and prepare for your eternity.   Jesus return is soon and in the meantime you and I have present responsibilities - “…what manner of persons ought you to be in holy conduct and godliness, looking for and hastening the coming of the day of God…” (2 Pet.3: 11-12)

May you have a blessed and hopeful Memorial weekend!

Pastor Rodney