Frank J. Buchman

Cowboy • Horseman • Writer

Memories Of Loved Ones A Guide To Eternal Life

May 28 will be a most humbling and sad day for many of us.

It is a time we will remember our loves ones, and all generations, who have passed before us. Likewise, our own mortality, and the certainty of it, will again be imprinted

Referred to as Decoration Day by family when we were growing up, Memorial Day is a United Statesfederal holiday that is observed on the final Monday of May. Originally designated to honor those who lost their lives in military service, it is now a time to remember all who have died.


Exodus 12:14 demands we pay our respects:“And this day shall be unto you for a memorial; and ye shall keep it a feast to the Lord throughout your generations; ye shall keep it a feast by an ordinance for ever.”

While Memorial Day is somber, there is that certain pleasantness in the beautiful memories that are always brought to mind of times we had with our family and friends who have departed this life.

Fear of one’s own death is pacified by the popular Psalms 23:4: “Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me.”

Without fail, names and dates of birth and death are read on dozens of gravestones. Many died young, but large numbers lived over three-quarters of a century. Though none like Genesis 9:29: “All the days of Noah were nine hundred and fifty years, and he
died.”

As we place flowers, usually artificial ones coupled with some fresh picked bouquets, a special aroma seems to be all around.

There is a strong sense of patriotic pride as graves of those who’ve served in military are marked with American flags. Now in addition to one large Old Glory flying, dozens of flags often form avenues of inspiration for special services with prayers, placing of
a wreath on an unknown soldier’s grave, taps and a gun-firing salute.

Importance of this day is stressed in Esther 9:28: “And that these days (of memorial) should be remembered and kept throughout every generation, every family, every province, and every city.”

Promise of our eternal life comes in Revelation 21:4: “And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away.”

+++ALLELUIA+++

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