Let Us Remember

"So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed."

St. John 8:36

Last month, this nation observed Memorial Day. For some people, Memorial Day is the unofficial beginning of summer – a time for cookouts and trips to the beach. But for others, Memorial Day is much more sobering. It is on this day we remembered those who gave their lives in the fight for freedom. Because they sacrificed their lives, we are able to enjoy our freedom in this country. We offer gratitude and honor them for what they have done.

As we honor the brave men and women who secured our political freedom, we must also honor the One who secured our ULTIMATE FREEDOM over sin, death, and evil. Jesus Christ gave us His everything by sacrificing His won life for the cause of ultimate freedom. Through Jesus, we remember that:

God is Good. It is sometimes popular to blame God when “bad” things happen. But remember everything “good” we have in our lives comes from God. We should recognize that we have all sinned and fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23), but through it all, God is good and always offers us His grace!

God is Able. He is able to do immeasurably more than we can ask or imagine (Ephesians 3:20). There is nothing impossible with Him. The size of our vision in life should always be proportional to the size of our God.

God is Wisdom. Jesus says that He is the Way (St. John 14:6) There is no better path to follow than God’s path. When we are looking to make a difficult decision, there is no better choice to make than to make God’s choice. It may often be a difficult choice, but it is always the right choice.

God is Present. Our God has promised to never fail us or forsake us (Deuteronomy 31:6). Jesus’ promise is that He is with us always (St. Matthew 28:20). There may be times in life where God feels far away, but we shouldn’t let our emotions deceive us. He is just as close as He has ever been. Even when we are walking through the valley, He takes us by the hand.

Finally, there is one more thing we need to remember: we have a mission to help others to not forget who God is and what He has done for the world. There are many who do not realize the gift of God through Jesus Christ. Some have not been told. Some have forgotten. Others are indifferent. It is our responsibility to make known to the world that Jesus Christ, through His sacrifice on the cross, has won ultimate freedom and salvation for all!

May this summer be an opportunity for us to renew our commitment to the Lord by serving Him and others in wholehearted gladness!

With love and prayers,

Rev. Christopher Phil Daniel

Vicar, Jerusalem Mar Thoma Church, CT