Memorial Day was set aside in 1868 as a day of remembrance for those who died in our nation's service. There is great value in remembering those who gave their lives for our freedom. There is even greater value in remembering the One who gave His life for our salvation. Paul wrote, "Remember that Jesus Christ of the seed of David was raised from the dead according to my gospel: 9Wherein I suffer trouble, as an evil doer, even unto bonds; but the word of God is not bound" (2 Tim. 2:8-9). Let us remember these truths.

First, Jesus Christ is a real historical being. He really came to this earth from the lineage of King David (Mt. 1:1-17), being born of a virgin named, Mary (Isa. 7:14 cf. Mt. 1:18-23). He really was crucified on a Roman cross (Jn. 19:16-37). He really did rise from the dead on the third day (Lk. 24:1-12). Each of these events was witnessed by many reliable individuals. One must disregard all reason in order to deny the reality of Jesus' life and death!

Second, being a follower of Jesus results in trouble from the world. Jesus told His apostles, "If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. 19If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world...the world hateth you. 20Remember the word that I said unto you, The servant is not greater than his lord. If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you" (Jn. 15:20). Sharing in Christ's glory necessitates sharing also in His suffering (Rom. 8:17-18; 1 Pet. 4:12-16).

Third, the word of God is indestructible. A king can use his penknife to cut out and burn the word of God (Jer. 36:20-26); a civil government can capture the Lord's preachers and tell them not to preach the word of God (Acts 5:17-28); and false religion can twist and suppress the word of God to the point that it deceives others into following the devil (Rev. 13:1-9). But the word of God will rise above and triumph over all opposition! "For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword" (Heb. 4:12, NKJ).

May we never forget that Jesus Christ lived and died for our sins (Jn. 3:16-17); may we always remember that living for Christ involves persecution (Mt. 5:10-12); and may we continue to allow His word to guide our steps (Ps. 119:105). Let us honor the Christ's death by living these truths.