This weekend we are to remember those who have fought for our freedoms and gave their lives for the cause. It does one good to remember such things because it reminds us that the freedoms we now enjoy did not come without a price, a great price.

These memories keep the heart humble and grateful, and it behooves us all to reflect in thanksgiving, that God has kept a watchful eye upon America. For no matter how many young men have fallen in battle, there is still the One who gave Himself freely for the one great cause –Jesus Christ.

The battle He fought was greater than all the battles ever fought; the fight was more intense, more stressful and way more costly if He would have failed. He had no army behind Him, no fortress to keep the enemy at bay. The battle waged on for all His life; while He was in His hometown or away.

The enemy was everywhere and attacked at the most inopportune times. He even offered Jesus a “peace treaty” that would have given Him all the kingdoms of the world. But Jesus fought the fight and would not give in to an easy way out. Jesus’ battle was in the spiritual realm and with entities that were invisible.

The powers and authorities that fought against Him had influenced family and friends. A traitor was picked right from ranks of those closest to this great Soldier. His capture led to a false arrest and trumped up charges. His closest comrades deserted and dispersed. He was tortured and crucified and it appeared that he had lost the war…

But this would not be the case! Everything went according to plan. This Soldier followed the orders of a perfectly thought out battle plan and secured victory for His kingdom.

Jesus didn’t walk into a trap. He knew who the traitor was and that all His followers would desert Him after His arrest. He knew that He would be bruised for our iniquities and pierced for our transgressions. The plan was that by the stripes on His back we would be healed. It was all in the plan and the plan was going just as it was supposed to.

Do you not realize that this is how love breaks through into the enemy’s camp?! The weapons of righteousness in the hands of Jesus were being wielded right before the enemy’s eyes; they were mercy and truth. Though He died a horrible a death, He did so because of His love for us.

“No greater love has anyone than this; that a man would lay his life down for his friends.”

When I remember all that Jesus Christ went through to secure the price paid for my redemption, there is no sweeter memory than the one that reminds me that His death was not in vain. Because three days later, He arose from the dead and won the Victory!

Actually, if we would remember correctly, Jesus triumphed with his death; His resurrection was the consequential proof for us all! The resurrection is a sweet memory that says, if anyone would trust in Him, they would have a hope of living forever. It was God’s intention, that in bringing many sons to glory, He would make the Captain of their salvation perfect through suffering!

Thank you Jesus, for the memories.