Memorial Day

Today, many will gather with family and friends around great food, cold drinks, and refreshing pools as summer unofficially begins.

Our own home will be full of life and laughter as we open our doors to people from all over the world through our church, Nations Church. For many international students in our community, this holiday can feel unfamiliar and lonely, so we love creating a place where they can belong, celebrate, and be together.

And honestly, I love days like this.

But a few years ago, I became convicted that I was missing the true meaning of Memorial Day.

Somewhere along the way, the day had quietly become more about the celebration than the sacrifice. And I began to wonder if, unintentionally, even our gatherings were contributing to that disconnect.

Because while family, friendship, rest, and community are gifts worth celebrating, Memorial Day is ultimately about something far deeper.

It is about the men and women who gave their lives so we could enjoy the freedoms we so often take for granted.

The freedom to worship freely.
The freedom to speak openly.
The freedom to vote.
The freedom to gather.
The freedom to dream, build, raise families, and live without fear.

Freedoms purchased at a price most of us will never fully understand.

So several years ago, we started a new tradition at our Memorial Day gathering. We ask every person who comes to bring a picture and a story of a fallen soldier — someone they want remembered that day.

Then, before the meal begins, we pause.

One by one, people share.

A grandfather.
A friend.
A brother.
A hometown hero.

And for a few sacred moments, Memorial Day becomes personal again.

I still remember 5-year-old Layne bravely standing up and sharing his soldier’s story. And every year, hearing MawMaw share is something that stays with all of us. From the youngest in the room to the oldest, everyone feels it: this day is different.

Not better.
Just different.

For a little while, our eyes are lifted off ourselves — off the food, the schedule, the entertainment, the comforts we enjoy — and redirected toward those who gave everything so we could enjoy the blessings of this country.

In those moments, gratitude deepens.
Humility settles in.
Perspective returns.

And somehow, even the burgers taste a little juicier.

Perspective does that to a meal.

More importantly, perspective reminds us that freedom isn’t free.

So today, celebrate. Laugh loudly. Swim. Eat well. Enjoy your people. Open your home.

But somewhere in the middle of all the celebration, pause long enough to remember the ones who never made it home.

Honor them well.