In one of my past sermons I used an illustration about two Marines who died. They died standing their ground to stop a speeding truck loaded with explosives. While all the Iraqi police fled, those two brave Marines didn’t. They shot and killed the driver and disable the engine. The truck still blew up but it never made it on the base. Those two Marines were the only ones who died. They saved the lives of everyone sleeping on the base.

Those two Marines made the greatest sacrifice.

In John 15:13 Jesus said, “No one has greater love than this – that one lays down his life for his friends.” That means that if you want to love someone to the fullest, you will die for them. This type of love is greater than any love you can give to your spouse, children, or even to God. I’m convinced that if a person sacrifices himself/herself to save others, they will be in heaven because there is no greater love than this.

Memorial Day

This weekend we celebrate those who have given their lives in service to this country. Those who gave their lives to save their brothers and sisters. These men and women who paid the highest sacrifice, gave you the greatest gift ever. They gave you the gift of the gospel. “How is that?” you may be wondering.

When the Apostles and early Christians died, the gospel spread even further. Their death propelled the gospel and gave others a chance to be saved. Those two Marines who died gave everyone in that base an opportunity to learn about Jesus and surrender their lives to God.

All the men and women who have died serving this country gave me and you an opportunity to hear the gospel and be saved. Now it’s your turn. Are you going to take advantage of your freedom? Are you going to accept the gospel? Are you going to serve Jesus Christ?

Make a Difference

Here is your chance to honor those who died for you. Leave the name(s) of your friends or family members who died in service in the comments below. Pray for those families mentioned below as they will be in mourning this weekend. Finally, click here to purchase Combat Ready and learn how you can use your experiences for the kingdom of God. All profits from the book will go toward spreading the gospel and planting a church.

May God bless you and use you in your service to Him.