Memorial Day: Recognizing the Cost of Freedom

For many Americans, Memorial Day is seen as a long weekend that kicks off summertime. It’s often filled with days at the beach, cookouts, and time with family and friends, but Memorial Day is so much more than this. It is a day to honor and remember the brave men and women who gave their lives for the freedom we enjoy in the United States of America. This freedom came at a high cost.

Kristy Graham, host of On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse, sat down with Operation Heal Our Patriots’ chaplain Luis Anda to discuss the importance of this day.

“This episode isn’t made to make you feel guilty but to feel grateful for the freedom that you enjoy here in the United States of America.” – Kristy Graham

Memorial Day is a day to honor those who died for our freedom, but Luis shares that it is also a day of hope.

“Without sacrifice, there’s never hope.” – Luis Anda

Kristy and Luis discuss grief, and how this federal holiday is often very hard and heavy for the entire military community. It’s an anniversary that they all share—one to remember their battle buddies who paid the ultimate price. Gold Star family members often describe their grief like an ocean. The pain ebbs and flows, but the only One who can truly carry this burden is Christ.

“Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30 (ESV)

Only God can give true, everlasting freedom. Luis shares the Gospel, encouraging listeners that Christ can deliver, restore, and redeem you. It doesn’t matter who you are or what you have done—you can find freedom and forgiveness in Jesus Christ. This freedom is not based on the country you live in but on your surrender to God.

Kristy also shares practical ways to honor and remember fallen soldiers who gave their lives defending the United States. She encourages parents to teach their children about this sacrifice, and to pray this Memorial Day for the Gold Star family members who are grieving their loved ones.