By Deacon Oran Struecker
When I was seven or eight years old, my dad took me to the funeral of a soldier. It would have been in the late 60’s, during the Vietnam War. It is something that I have not forgotten to this day. My dad served in the Navy, and enlisted so that he could choose where he served instead of being drafted. He taught me and my siblings to respect those that give of themselves in service to this country. This weekend is Memorial Day weekend, a time to remember the brave men and women that have gone before us, especially those that served our country and gave their lives so that we could be free. Our freedom comes at a price.
As we remember those who gave their lives for us, we commemorate Jesus death and resurrection in the celebration of the Mass. Jesus gave His life for our freedom. Freedom from sin and death so that we may have eternal life. This freedom also comes at a price. Jesus’ death does not mean we can do whatever we want, whenever we want. There are rules that we need to follow to ensure our salvation.
This Memorial Day, show your respect and remembrance for those who sacrificed their lives in military service and the immeasurable loss to their families, friends and communities. Thank all who have served and are serving to keep us free. Thank our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ, who died to give us the ultimate freedom, eternal life with our heavenly Father.