By Nancy Virden (c)2021

Sacrifice. No gift is sacrificial if it does not cost the giver anything. The term sacrifice also implies a costly gift, one the giver could only attain by laying aside something valuable to himself.

You’ve heard the story of the woman who sold her luscious hair to afford a chain for her husband’s watch, only to find he’d sold his watch to buy a fancy comb for her hair. This story about giving is a sampling of sacrifice. Each spouse valued what they sold, but held the other in even higher esteem.

When Jesus taught about love, he referred to sacrifice. According to his words and example, love is the willingness to give up whatever one values for the sake of another. For example, he mocked rich religious leaders who hypocritically gave a percentage of all their wealth. He honored a woman who gave up all she had to live on.

So it is with soldiers whose lives are given for our freedoms. Their sacrifices cost them everything. There is no higher price.

Jesus said such when he was talking to his disciples. They did not quite yet understand that he was referring to his love for them when he stated, “There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” He went on to encourage them to love each other in the same way.

This Memorial Day and always, regardless our political or societal views, we must honor the deaths of veterans who fought on our behalf. There is no greater love. -COMMENTS WELCOME

Today’s Helpful Word

John 15:13 NLT

There is no greater love than to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.

Always the Fight Ministries (ATFM) has been displaying compassion for those fighting mental illness, addiction, or abuse since 2012. Nancy is the founder and voice of ATFM and openly shares her emotional resurrection from despair.

NOTE: I am not a doctor or a mental health professional, and speak only from personal experiences and observations. In no way is this website intended to substitute for professional mental or behavioral health care.

If you are feeling suicidal, or concerned about someone who is, in the U.S. call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or for a list of international suicide hotlines, go here.

If you are suicidal with a plan, immediately call 911 in the U.S. or go to your nearest emergency room. In the EU call 112. (For other international emergency numbers, go here ). Hope and help are yours!

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