Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for remembering the men and women who died while serving in the country’s armed forces.
On Memorial Day, the flag of the United States is raised briskly to the top of the staff and then solemnly lowered to the half-staff position, where it remains only until noon. It is then raised to full-staff for the remainder of the day.
The half-staff position remembers the more than one million men and women who gave their lives in service of their country. At noon, their memory is raised by the living, who resolve not to let their sacrifice be in vain, but to rise up in their stead and continue the fight for liberty and justice for all.
The Memorial Day federal holiday was known as Decoration Day and originated after the American Civil War to commemorate the Union and Confederate soldiers who died in the war.
The practice of decorating soldiers’ graves with flowers is an ancient custom.
In the religious observance of Memorial Day, we turn to Martin Luther, of War. Treatise on the Peasants’ Revolt: Admonition to Peace.
May God be praised! For the very fact that the sword has been instituted by God to punish the evil, protect the good, and preserve peace [Rom. 13:1–4; I Pet. 2:13–14] is powerful and sufficient proof that war and killing along with all the things that accompany wartime and martial law have been instituted by God. What else is war but the punishment of wrong and evil? Why does anyone go to war, except because he desires peace and obedience?
Martin Luther AE. 46.
Let us pray …
Dear Jesus,
We pray that you turn the hearts of all people, military and civilian, to your example where we find true peace. Please inspire us to know, take hold and treasure your gifts of Grace and Salvation. In Your Name, our Blessed Savior, who gifts us peace, hope, love and joy for eternity, we pray. Amen.