The people of Israel had their own memorial day of sorts in the book of Joshua.  As the people of Israel crossed the Jordan River with the battle of Jericho looming in front of them, they took time to ‘remember.’  Joshua called twelve men to each gather a stone from the river Jordan as a sign to them to help them remember.  These stones were to be a memorial. When their children would ask “What do these stones mean to you?” the people were to tell the story of God’s faithfulness in making a way for them to pass through the Jordan on dry ground, as they prepared for battle in Jericho. About 40,000 people were ready to sacrifice themselves in battle.

Certainly, this Memorial Day Weekend is all about remembering all who have given their life by serving our country in the Armed Forces.  These folks knew a battle loomed on their horizon, yet they moved forward in courage to ultimately not be able to see all that was accomplished by their sacrifice.  For that, we remember them.

Perhaps we may visit a grave of a loved one and remember them with great fondness and love.  As we look upon their grave stone, perhaps we could ask the same question, “What do these stone mean to you?”  Each stone tells a story; a story of sacrifice and faithfulness of the loved one who was lost, and also of God’s faithfulness through that sacrifice.  What battle looms on your horizon?  What river are you attempting to cross?  How are you also remembering God’s faithfulness and sacrifice that He has given you that gives you assurance that he is with you?  Do you remember?  Are you telling that story? Watch or Listen below.