Many know that I’m a movie buff. I especially love a movie with great, crisp dialog. A favorite of mine is A Few Good Men which is about a military court case. You just can’t forget Jack Nicholson yelling, “You can’t handle the truth!” People remember it even if they’ve never seen the film.
However, the line I love happens when two of the lawyers disagree about their Marine clients. One asks the other, “Why do you like them so much?”
The reply is: “Because they stand on a wall and say, ‘Nothing’s going to hurt you tonight, not on my watch.’”
I love that line. When I think of those who serve in the military to protect our freedoms that’s what I picture – soldiers standing guard so we can sleep in peace. They stand watch so we can enjoy the freedoms and rights we so often take for granted: freedom of religion, freedom of speech, the right to assemble, the right to a trial, the right to vote, and so on. These are privileges afforded us because of those who make sure no one takes them away. And don’t kid yourself! Some countries resent the United States for having these freedoms and would be ecstatic if they were gone. Many gave their lives so we could have these freedoms to protect.
There was a time when almost every man living had fought in some war for our country. Our freedoms have become somewhat secure so fewer men have had to do this. But many died so we could be free. Memorial Day commemorates the death of all those who lost their lives in military service to protect our freedoms. Memorial Day is a time for us to remember them.
God is very big on us remembering things. In fact he was constantly reminding the Israelites to remember all he had done for them (Deuteronomy 7:12, 8:2). And especially how he had delivered them to freedom (Deuteronomy 5:15). I guess freedom was just as big a deal in biblical times as it is today.
I hope we remember to thank God for our freedoms. I hope we remember those who gave their lives to help us gain freedom. Memorial Day is a great time for remembering. Let’s remember them!
