“And Joshua said unto them, Pass over before the ark of the LORD your God into the midst of Jordan, and take ye up every man of you a stone upon his shoulder, according unto the number of the tribes of the children of Israel…and these stones shall be for a memorial unto the children of Israel for ever” (Joshua 4:5, 7).

It was a mighty miracle. Joshua and the children of Israel passed on dry ground through the Jordan River to proceed into the Promised Land. As the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stepped from the shores, the waters were sent piling backwards and standing up as mighty walls on both sides. The people followed, passing through on dry land. Joshua designated men who each were to select a stone. These stones were to be brought up from the river bed and taken to the other side on dry land. They were to serve as memorial stones so that when the children of later generations would ask what these meant, a wonderful teaching opportunity would take place as parents and grandparents would share about the miracle that the LORD God had accomplished. Memorial stones must have brought great opportunities to wise parents and grandparents. The children of the next generations must be challenged to remember! Likewise, today is a great day to remind our children that Memorial Day is not just a day for picnics and cook-outs. It is a day to remember the severe price freedom cost. We need to help our younger generation do a lot more remembering!

For today: The greatest sacrifice was made by the Lord Jesus. Have you thanked Him today?