Jesus said, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.”

Luke 22:19

Memorial Day

When I was growing up Memorial Day was celebrated on May 30th, and the whole day was dedicated to honoring the dead, most particularly those who had died in service of our country. It was originally called Decoration Day, when flowers and flags were placed on graves throughout the cemeteries. Parades were long, with many marching bands playing patriotic music. As a Girl Scout, I participated in the parade which made its way through the cemetery, pausing here and there for short remembrances, and the laying of wreaths on certain monuments. Half way through we had a ten minute break, and some of us wandered among the stones reading the names, dates and inscriptions. It was a poignant reminder of the shortness and uncertainty of life. Memorial Day, a good time to take a stroll through the cemetery, perhaps lay a flower on a loved one’s grave, get out the old photographs, or call a friend or family member to share memories of deceased loved ones, those who helped shape our lives, and who now live on in us. God has blessed us with memory to enrich our lives, and to give it meaning. Memorial Day is a good time for remembrances, but any day will do.

gracedeacon@gwi.net