Lest We Forget

“. . . He took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them saying, ‘This is My body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of Me.’ Likewise also the cup. . .” (Luke 22:19–20)

How could any American forget that tragic day labeled 9/11? Horror, terror, tragedy, grief, and suffering mark that day in history. The day reminds us of thousands of lives lost; thousands of families that will never be the same; thousands of responders and people in the vicinity of the towers suffer health issues—many of whom have since perished. That day, and many days after, was marked by millions of believers and non-believers calling upon God to intervene. Though terror and unrest seemly reigned a short while, God stepped in, displayed His greatness, and overshadowed the fear with His presence.

We must never forget 9/11 and the countless heroes, many who remain unnamed, many who gave their lives in efforts to save others. Though we should not underestimate the power of our enemies, we must never forget that Almighty God is more powerful than any enemy we will ever face. That day stamped history. We honor and remember the heroes, lives lost, and sacrifices made with testimonials, a memorial erected, and the reading of names of the known men and women who perished that day. Never forget how our nation changed because of that dreadful day. Never forget that God Almighty is mightier than any foe. The incident of 9/11 is a calendared day, a yearly reminder to remember, lest we forget.

Another calendar date marks an incident that occurred over two thousand years ago. This event changed the course of history for the entire world. Sadly, many people recall only once a year that God’s Son hung on a cross and died. Jesus died bearing the sins of all people who have lived and for all who will ever walk this earth. Easter Sunday—Resurrection Day—is celebrated among Christians because Jesus rose from the grave on the third day, conquering death. Because of His resurrection, we have access to the Father and eternal life with Him.

The evening before His death, Jesus instituted the ordinance of the Lord’s Supper and instructed the disciples (and us) to “do this in remembrance of Me.” Partaking in the Lord’s Supper reminds believers of His broken body and shed blood. We must remember His sacrifice made on our behalf and thank God for the gift of His Son. Jesus, the perfect, spotless Lamb of God, took our sins upon Himself on the cross so we could be set free. He paid the ultimate price for our freedom—our eternal salvation. The empty grave is a reminder, lest we forget.