This Memorial Day, honor the fallen not only by remembering them but by living boldly—walking in faith, fulfilling your calling, and building something that lasts.
Every Memorial Day, I pause to reflect on those who’ve gone before me.
The brave souls who chose sacrifice over safety.
Purpose over passivity.
Courage over comfort.
In his 1982 Memorial Day speech, President Reagan said, “We are forever indebted to those who have given their lives that we might be free.”
Even an orator like Reagan was at a loss for words, thinking about the brave men and women we’ve lost.
"Words are even more feeble on this Memorial Day,” Reagan said, “for the sight before us is that of a strong and good nation that stands in silence and remembers."
John 15:13 says," Greater love has no one than this, to lay down one's life for one's friends."
Today, we remember those heroes who embodied this ultimate expression of love.
Memorial Day isn’t just about looking backward, it’s a reminder to live forward.
Those heroes didn’t give up their futures just so we could live ordinary lives. They sacrificed so we could live extraordinary, purpose-driven lives filled with faith, courage, and relentless determination.
President Reagan said, "If words cannot repay the debt we owe these men, surely with our actions we must strive to keep faith with them and with the vision that led them to battle and a final sacrifice."
Philippians 4:13 grounds those words in scripture, saying, "I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me." It's a powerful reminder that we're equipped to face our challenges and fulfill our purpose.
Pursuing greatness means choosing courage instead of comfort, discipline instead of distraction, faith instead of fear.
As Reagan reminded us, these heroes were mostly young, full of strength and fire, stepping into the unknown so others could step into freedom. Most never had the chance to fall in love, raise kids, or grow old.
Today, I encourage you to ask yourself: “What am I willing to sacrifice for something greater than myself?”
Personally, I’ve found strength and clarity by grounding my purpose in faith.
Joshua 1:9 is my anchor: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Courage doesn’t mean fearlessness. We would be stupid not to fear the unknown.
No, courage means taking action despite fear because we trust in something greater…
greater.
Ephesians 4:1 says, “Live a life worthy of the calling you have received.”
When you realize someone else paid the price for your freedom, you walk differently. You think twice before wasting a day.
So here’s my challenge to you: honor their sacrifice by making bold moves in your life today.
Start that business, mend that relationship, deepen your faith, push your physical limits.
Let the bravery of those we honor empower you. Their legacy calls us to higher standards, deeper commitment, and genuine service.
And we remember best when we live with intent.
This week, carve out space to reflect.
Pray with clarity.
Choose one part of your life and bring your full presence to it.
Show up strong, show up humble, and show up as a person of faith.
You’ve been handed a legacy built on sacrifice. What you build next is your response.
