"It is for freedom that Christ has set us free. Stand firm, then, and do not let yourselves be burdened again by a yoke of slavery." (Galatians 5:1)
 
Memorial Day is the sign of good weather and a chance to get out of our houses, reconnect with neighbors and friends, and play some golf! More importantly, it's a day to remember all of the people that went before us, fighting for the freedom that we often take for granted. I am grateful to all of the veterans that play golf with us and for all of the people who have paid the ultimate price so that we can, among countless other things, freely discuss God on the golf course.

Let's not forget the greatest sacrifice ever made for our freedom - that of Jesus on the cross. Because of Him we have the ability to unashamedly approach God both on this earth and for eternity. He has freed us from not only certain eternal death but also from the sin that robs us of the real life that He intended. 

So as we golf together this year, let's not forget the people that have fought for the life we can enjoy today.  Is there someone that you remember on Memorial Day? If you would like, please take a moment to add a comment in honor of a fallen veteran.

Author: Mark Dwyer

"For God so loved the world that He gave his one and only Son..." (John 3:16)

Tucking my kids in for bed tonight, I was overwhelmed with the love that I felt for each of them. I remember the day each was born, and the unique personalities of each; I fear for their futures, wondering how they (and I) will handle all of the pain that they face. I cannot imagine life without them!

And then I think of God's love for them. He knows them even better than I do, and LOVES them even more. God's love is truly unconditional for them. 

Then I think of God's love for me. I'm still a "child" to him. He knows my faults, my unique personality, and he feels my pain. He did everything he could to show me his love and to protect me from this broken world - literally taking my punishment for me so that I could know real life with Him forever. I hope that I continue to grow in the knowledge of his love for me - the more I know of his love, the more empowered I feel to show it to others.

Author: Mark Dwyer