“Then ye shall answer them, That the waters of Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD; when it passed over Jordan, the waters of Jordan were cut off: and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever.” – Joshua 4:7
If, with star spangled enthusiasm one might gasp, "Oh say, can you see," might one also find an opportune moment to ask, "Oh see, can you say?"
Stones and flags and monuments are built with the best of intentions to remind future generations of past events that have lasting impact. Days are set aside so that we may not forget times and people who have shaped our present reality.
I am most likely to speak what I see and express what is temporally or metaphorically visible to my consciousness. I fix my eyes upon a flag to be reminded of the principles it attempts to symbolize. I gaze upon a facsimile of the cross to focus my attention on the cross of Jesus.
We set aside a day of remembrance to show our grief, love, and appreciation for men and women we must not forget because their sacrifices have reinforced a hedge of protection around our fragile freedom.
Can we see it? If so, can we say it? If I can get it, I can give it. If I can grasp it, I can pass it on. If it inspires me, I can use it to inspire others. Let us not allow our songs of patriotic fervor to be reduced to nostalgic sentimentality or rote formality. Nor let us pledge empty allegiance to the flag that flies over the land of the free.
Can you see what has been given you? Can you visualize the fruits of the labors of those who have given their lives? Can you grasp the full measure of the undeserved benefits that have come your way through their efforts and bloodshed?
We are the recipients of great gifts purchased at great cost in the realms of the Spirit and the flesh. Tomorrows is a significant day of remembrance and refocus. Don’t miss it. Oh see! Can you say?
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That being said, here is a tribute to our nation's Memorial Day as we continue to reach for the fulfillment of the aspiration of liberty and justice for all.
