The first part of my blog is a little negative, but I finish well.

Today I’m presenting two similar pictures – Christian and patriotic holidays.

If Jesus walked the streets of our nation during Christmas and Easter, I suspect He might wonder “Where am I in all of this?” or “Don’t people know these two days should point them to me.”  What He must think about the atheists wanting equal billing with manger scenes on government property. I confess there are times when, as a Christ-follower, I say in my heart “I want my holidays back!”

The other picture is Memorial Day when we “memorialize” those who paid the ultimate price for our many freedoms.  If the veterans who gave their lives walked our streets I suspect they would share the same thoughts Jesus might have.  The picnics and family gatherings and travelling are great – but where do I fit into all of this.  After all, the day is about me, isn’t it?

Then I read a comment from a veteran who addressed my question simply and profoundly.  He said “I’m happy people have the freedom to have their picnics and family gatherings and can travel anywhere they want to!”

I’ll always want our society to have a great focus on the real reasons for Christmas and Easter and if I were king I would make it law. And I sure enjoyed my cookout with friends on Memorial Day because the taste of freedom is something many in our world will never experience.

Blessings!

Pastor Mark