Greater Love Hath No Man
Memorial Day Weekend Devotion
True Story:
During World War II, four U.S. Army chaplains—George L. Fox, Alexander D. Goode, Clark V. Poling, and John P. Washington—were aboard the USAT Dorchester when it was struck by a German U-boat torpedo in 1943. As the ship sank, these four men gave up their life jackets to save others. Survivors watched as the chaplains linked arms, prayed, and sang hymns while the ship disappeared into the icy waters. None of them survived.
Their sacrifice embodied both spiritual leadership and selfless love.
Scripture – John 15:13 (MEV)
Greater love has no man than this: that a man lay down his life for his friends.
Devotion Message
On Memorial Day weekend, many enjoy cookouts, beach trips, and a long weekend off. But it’s more than that. It’s a time to pause and reflect on the price of freedom. Every flag placed beside a grave represents someone who paid that price.
As believers, we understand sacrifice on an even deeper level. Jesus laid down His life—not for a country, but for the world. The ultimate act of love wasn’t done on a battlefield, but on a cross. Yet it echoes in every story of a soldier who gave his or her life for others.
Memorial Day is a sacred opportunity to remember two things:
- The cost of earthly freedom, secured by brave men and women who gave their all.
- The gift of eternal freedom, bought by the blood of Jesus Christ.
Let this weekend stir gratitude, not just for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans, but for the salvation we have as Christians.
Reflection Questions
- What freedoms do I often take for granted?
- How can I honor both the fallen and my Savior with how I live?
- Who in my life has made sacrifices that I should thank God for?
Prayer
Lord, thank You for the men and women who gave their lives so that we can live free. Let us never forget their sacrifice. And thank You, Jesus, for laying down Your life so we can live eternally. Help us live lives worthy of both freedoms—earthly and eternal. Amen.