Honoring the Brave

On this Memorial Day, we pause — hearts full and heads bowed — to remember those who gave everything so we could live in freedom.

To the men and women who have served our country, past and present: Thank you. Your courage, dedication, and selfless sacrifice are the foundation of our liberty. You chose duty over comfort, and in doing so, you’ve shaped a nation’s strength. We are forever grateful.

To the families who serve behind the scenes — the parents, spouses, children, and loved ones who wait, pray, and carry on while their heroes protect our land — you are seen. You bear a quiet, powerful kind of bravery, and your sacrifices matter deeply.

And to the families who have lost someone in the line of duty: words will never be enough. But today, and every day, we remember with reverence. May you feel the comforting presence of the One who understands deep loss — God who gave His Son — and may His peace surround you. Your loved one’s sacrifice was not in vain, and we carry their memory with honor and pride.

As we gather with loved ones, fire up the grill, enjoy our freedoms, and maybe even sing “I’m proud to be an American,” let’s not forget the cost behind that freedom. Let’s live lives worthy of their sacrifice – lives marked by love and service, compassion, and courage.

Today, we don’t just say “thank you.”
We live it. We mean it. We remember.

With humble hearts and deep respect, we honor you.
“Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” John 15:13

Dear Heavenly Father, today we remember the brave men and women who laid down their lives for our freedom. We lift up their families — those living with the ache of loss — and ask You to surround them with Your peace and presence. Thank You for the freedoms we enjoy, and please help us never to take them for granted. Teach us to live lives of gratitude and purpose, in honor of those who gave their all. Through Christ our Lord, we pray! Amen.