a heavenly one."
(Hebrews 11:16)
Beloved, today is Memorial Day in the United States of America, a day when Americans pay tribute to the men and women who have served--and are serving--in our country's military forces. It's also a day when we memorialize those who have died in their service.
My father and husband have served in this nation's armed forces, and even as I lift prayers and give thanks for the lives and service of all in our military, my heart is longing for a country of my own, the one in which I, and all Christians, will eternally dwell (reference Hebrews 11:13-16).
And, as I remember our American troops, I am also interceding for those serving the country of Israel, God's chosen land. My spirit is grieved for the battle-weary state, and the words of the Lord as recorded by the prophet, Joel, have been on my heart this past week: "In those days and at that time, when I restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem, I will gather all nations and bring them down to the Valley of Jehoshaphat. There I will enter in judgment against them concerning My inheritance, My people Israel, for they scattered My people among the nations and divided up My land." (Joel 3:1-2).
This morning, I was also drawn to remember a different kind of memorial, that which Aaron, the high priest, wore on his shoulders and over his heart (reference Exodus 28): " 'Aaron is to bear the names on his shoulders as a memorial before the LORD.' ... 'Whenever Aaron enters the Holy Place, he will bear the names of the sons of Israel over his heart on the breastpiece of decision as a continuing memorial before the LORD.' " (verses 12b and 29).
Beloved, even as we give thanks and praise for the abundant and gracious blessings, which the Lord has bestowed upon us in our temporary residence, let us never forget that this earth is not our home. "But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ." (Philippians 3:20).
Today, as you pause to remember American veterans, remember, too, those soldiers in the Lord's army, serving the cause of Christ (reference 2 Timothy 2:1-7). And, don't forget to remember the source of our true freedom, for "... the man who looks intently into the perfect law that gives freedom, and continues to do this, not forgetting what he has heard, but doing it--he will be blessed in what he does." (James 1:25; see also 2 Corinthians 3:17; Galatians 5:1).
Precious Father, thank You for the gift of this day. Let us never forget to remember You and Your eternal kingdom plan; may our every thought, word, and deed be in accordance with Your good will, purpose, and pleasure. Keep our eyes eternally focused, precious Lord, and keep our hearts heaven-bound. I pray in the name of Jesus Christ, the great High Priest in Whom I confess (reference Hebrews 3:1, 4:14, 6:20). Amen.
through all generations;
therefore the nations will praise You
for ever and ever."
(Psalm 45:17)
For further reflection on this topic, see also ...
Copyright 2009. Kathryn B. Wells. All Rights Reserved.
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