What do we celebrate? A love so great that the courageous among our armed force would die for us.
It can be difficult – almost paradoxical – to reconcile a loving God with the horrors of war. Yet, for the believer, it’s hard not to see a creator vitally interested in the affairs of his creation as an integral – no, essential – player in man’s destiny, even when that destiny is the inhumanity of man meted out on his fellow man. The reconciling of God’s love for us through the sacrifice of his only son is the ultimate Memorial Day story.
Memorial Day Honors Those Who Have Fallen
Because America has produced indescribably amazing individuals willing to give the last full measure of themselves, celebrating them makes Memorial Day uniquely important. However, to revere and be thankful for those who died for us and not see the comparison to God interceding in human existence is a significant oversight for the believer. Understanding his perpetual work and identity brings the comparison to life – literally. We do not experience a watchmaker who created a fine-tuned universe with its intricate gears and eternal springs and then sat back and mused about how it all proceeds.
Rather, He is a God Who Acts, as G. Ernest Wright penned in his 1952 monograph by that title. Wright explained God’s involvement in his creation, all of it, offering: “It is fundamentally an interpretation of history, a confessional recital of historical events as the acts of God, events which lead backward to the beginning of history and forward to its end.” God does not selectively dabble here and there when a particular event piques his interest.
So, it is not surprising that when God experienced his creation in need of a savior, he provided a sacrifice for sin. Christians should find Memorial Day’s emphasis on sacrifice resonating with the teachings of the Bible. Particularly appropriate and often quoted as having a meaningful parallel with America’s soldiers in conflict is Christianity.com’s thoughtful reflection in “How Should Christians Think About Memorial Day?” explaining:
“Memorial Day is a time to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. For Christians, it is also a moment to reflect on the values of sacrifice, love, and service that mirror the teachings of Jesus Christ. As we remember fallen heroes, we’re reminded of John 15:13, ‘Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.’”
It is fitting that a nation whose motto is “In God We Trust” should see the freedom America enjoys derived from a loving and involved God and that those who have died in service to that nation should be honored. When considering the title of this article, “God and Memorial Day,” from the point of view of a believer, it is reasonable to combine solemn remembrance of America’s fallen and spiritual thoughtfulness that emphasizes the intersection of faith, sacrifice, and national gratitude.
However, many dismiss God entirely. And again, the comparison between too many Americans’ minimizing Memorial Day and ignoring the sovereignty of God is too real. “Why have so many Americans lost sight of the true meaning and observance of Memorial Day?” The Daily Signal asked. The outlet explained that the change in date from May 30 to the last Monday in May was so federal workers could have a three-day weekend, diminished the meaning. However, drawing from the central theme of this article, like the loosening grasp of God at work in man’s endeavors, the emphasis on the trappings of Memorial Day have superseded an abiding reverence for the sacrifices of our defenders.
Defending one’s country even to the point of death is no trivial undertaking. Having an interested and concerned God as an overwatch should be welcomed. In a recent X post, Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth made this point succinctly: “It’s called: ‘In God We Trust.’ Since our founding, America’s leaders – and warriors – have sought God’s providence and protection. We seek to glorify Him as we serve our country. At the Pentagon, we will humbly continue this sacred tradition – each and every month.”
Historically, God Has Been Invoked
The notion of invoking God as part of Memorial Day remembrances is historically consistent. Originally called Decoration Day and commemorated on May 30 as far back as 1868, the day was marked to honor fallen Union soldiers killed in the Civil War. But it was later expanded to World War I and even later to all US military members killed in service. Early observances often included church-led efforts, with hymns and prayers reflecting an understanding of God’s importance in the memorial activities. To be sure, Memorial Day is not mentioned in the Bible.
Nonetheless, setting aside specific days for remembrance is. Passover is a good example. As Exodus 13:14 directed the Israelites: “This is a day you are to commemorate; for the generations to come, you shall celebrate it as a festival to the Lord – a lasting ordinance.” For the modern believer, this direction from God may prompt an understanding of Memorial Day as a time to honor and be grateful to all the service members who died as a sacrifice for our freedom. To that end, a God Who Acts and Memorial Day are a good fit.
The views expressed are those of the author and not of any other affiliate.
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