Memorial Day

We just came back from the new Gettysburg Visitor Center and were reminded again about how blessed we are to be living where and when we do; by-the-way make sure you get there soon, it's fantastic. Near the end of the exhibit we came to a room dedicated to the Gettysburg Address. You know, Abraham Lincoln's short speech given at the dedication of the Soldiers' National Cemetery. The speech that is memorized by more fourth graders than any other speech ever given. This portion of the exhibit included some of the media reactions to the address, including this one from the Harrisburg Patriot and Union: "...we pass over the silly remarks of the president: for the credit of the nation we are willing that the veil of oblivion shall be dropped over them and that they shall no more be repeated or thought of." As well as this from the London Times: "The ceremony was rendered ludicrous by some of the sallies of that poor President Lincoln. Anything more dull and commonplace it would not be easy to produce." So much for the collective wisdom of the media. To be fair it must be said that there were just as many laudatory comments made about "the sallies of that poor President Lincoln" as there were derogatory comments. But even as I was reading the dueling commentaries on what today is almost universally considered one of history's greatest speeches, I was struck by how difficult it is to dispassionately evaluate the events that take place around us even as they are happening. It is this fact that reminds me of how important it is for us to "discipline" our minds and emotions. We should not allow ourselves to panic as if we have no hope when times are difficult. Neither should we allow ourselves to shutdown when things seemingly are going our way. Rather, I think that the appropriate response of a believer in fluctuating times is one of both rest and vigilance. In turbulent times we should seek to find our rest in the knowledge that our God is both with and for us. In times that are marked by His grace we should endeavor to remain vigilant knowing that our enemy comes to steal and kill and destroy. When we panic we position ourselves to hurt those who are near us, primarily by disturbing their peace. On the other hand when we shutdown we make ourselves easy targets, as we become nothing more than pretenders pretending that all is well in this sinful world. So as you find yourself in the shadow of Memorial Day let me encourage you to find your rest in the presence of God even as you live out your life as an active member in His army.

Blessings,
PB