Lives given in love, courage, & faith

Today is one of those days where the grill might be fired up and the lawn chairs are out — but it’s also a day that carries deep meaning. 

It’s Memorial Day — a time to pause, reflect, and remember the brave men and women who laid down their lives for our freedom. So yes, let’s enjoy the burgers and the sunshine — but let’s also take a moment to honor the ones who gave it all.

Let’s talk about sacrifice, freedom, and the kind of love that leaves a legacy.

John 15:13 (NLT) – “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.”

While most of us won’t serve in the military, we’re still called to live lives of service and gratitude. Whether it’s showing up for someone in need, forgiving, or just being kind when it’s not easy — sacrifice comes in many forms.

Let’s be the ones who make a difference in our own towns and be aware that our freedom is not free.

When it comes to honoring our military, we can pray for the families who’ve lost loved ones and thank God for the service of those we remember today.

How can you honor someone’s sacrifice today — even in a small way?

There are so many powerful stories of courage and faith from men and women who served. You might even have one in your own family. These stories remind us that freedom isn’t free — and that bravery often comes with a price.

I’ve had many family members in the military. While they didn’t talk much about their experiences, the impact of their service was evident. So as we go about our day, let’s be thankful for our freedom and for those who’ve served.

One of the best ways we can honor the fallen is to live lives of gratitude — not just in words, but in how we treat others, how we value freedom, and how we use the life we’ve been given.

We live in a place where we’re free to do so much, and it’s easy to forget the price that’s been paid. Let’s stay aware of our freedoms and be thankful that we live in the land of the free and the home of the brave.

What’s one way you can turn gratitude into action this week?

We’re also talking about the connection between freedom and faith. Memorial Day reminds us that we live in a country where we can worship freely — and that’s a gift not everyone in the world has. Let’s not take that lightly.

Sometimes we forget how rare it is to pray publicly, go to church, or listen to Christian radio without fear. That freedom didn’t just happen — it came with sacrifice. Today is a reminder not to take that for granted.

Use your freedom to strengthen your faith. Don’t waste what others died to protect.

And there’s another kind of freedom too — the one Jesus gives. Freedom from fear, shame, and guilt. While Memorial Day honors national freedom, we can also reflect on the personal freedom we’ve found in Christ.

Bondage is real for many — but because of God, there is freedom. Being free from sin because of Jesus’ sacrifice is something to celebrate. We should be prayerfully thankful every day for that kind of grace.

What’s one way God has set you free?

Yes, today is somber — but there can be joy in remembering. We honor those we’ve lost by living full, joyful lives. By laughing, loving deeply, and soaking in moments with our families.

A lot of families will have a cookout today, and that’s beautiful. Just don’t forget the reason behind the day. It’s a powerful mix of remembrance and celebration.

The baton’s been passed to us. How are we carrying it? Whether it’s raising kids with strong values, serving in our communities, or simply being kind — we continue the legacy by how we live.

You might not wear a uniform, but your life can still be a tribute.

Memorial Day is about legacy — lives given in love, courage, and faith. Let’s end the show talking about the kind of legacy we’re building — in our families, our faith, and our everyday lives.

Legacies aren’t always built on big stages. Sometimes it’s the quiet acts of service, the bedtime prayers, the lunches packed with love. It’s often the simple things that leave the deepest mark.

We might think our daily tasks don’t mean much, but they make an impact. Acts of love and compassion are acts of service.

Sacrifice is rooted in love — love for country, for people, for what’s right. Jesus set the example, and our military heroes followed in His footsteps.

Knowing that Jesus first sacrificed Himself for us impacts me. Then, to think about all those who’ve served our country and given their lives — it leaves a deep impression. Because of Jesus, when we love well, we reflect Him.

Love someone well today. Call that friend. Write that note. Say thank you.

Not everyone has someone to remember them. That’s why moments like today matter. Many military members who’ve fallen were never even identified. So praying for families who’ve lost someone — even if we don’t know their names — means more than we realize.

Take a moment today to pray for military families. Maybe even send a note to someone who’s grieving.

Let’s leave this show with a renewed sense of purpose. We’re here today because someone else was willing to serve. Let’s make that matter. Let’s live with joy, compassion, and courage.

Live your life in a way that honors the price that was paid.

Let’s not forget why we have this day. It’s more than barbecues and sales — it’s about remembering the brave hearts who laid it all down so we could live freely. Let their legacy inspire us to live boldly, love deeply, and walk with gratitude.

Keep rising, keep shining, and let freedom ring.