No Greater Love

No one has greater love than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends. -John 15:13

Today is Memorial Day... the day that we recognize those that have given the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.  In my heart, that extends to more than just the military, though they certainly deserve our utmost respect, admiration and gratitude.  Included in my thoughts and prayers of the day though are fallen police officers and firefighters.  They also laid down their lives for their friends... as well as those they have never met. 

Can you imagine life without any of these folks?  No one willing to protect our shores... no one willing to protect our cities, towns and neighborhoods?  The soldier, police officer or fire fighter does not ask if we are worthy of their sacrifice before joining his/her chosen field.  They only hear the call to serve and obey.
I think these people are given an extra measure of love along with an extra measure of courage.  We are not all cut out to serve in this way.

Also in my thoughts and prayers today are the people of 9-11's flight 93 whose passengers forcibly crashed their plane into the field rather than allow the terrorists to carry out their plans.  What courage! No greater love!

Of course we must also remember the one who laid down his life for his friends, for those who never met him and for even his enemies... our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.  He is the example we must follow if and when we hear the call to lay down our own lives.

Lord Jesus,
We thank you for your sacrifice.  We also give you thanks for the lives of those who with love and courage laid down their lives in service to their fellow human beings, whether in the military, police force, fire department or even civilians who find themselves in the circumstance of being called to give it all.  Amen.

Joys:  Remembering ALL who gave their lives; picnic plans with friends; getting Cecelia for a couple of days