This weekend is called Memorial Day weekend in the United States. Many people view this as the unofficial start to the summer season. People get together with family, have cookouts, maybe fireworks and celebrate the day off from work (for some, not all). For many, what is forgotten is the reason the U.S. government instituted the holiday. To remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice, their life, in service to the country. Yes, there will be a few parades, veterans will get free meals or discounts, but for many, the time to remember will be forgotten. It simply is not important to them.

There is another time of remembrance that is often overlooked. Jesus instituted it before He was betrayed and gave the ultimate sacrifice for us. In Luke 22:18-20 we read:

For I tell you that from now on I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” And he took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it and gave it to them, saying, “This is my body, which is given for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” And likewise the cup after they had eaten, saying, “This cup that is poured out for you is the new covenant in my blood. (ESV)

And then Paul teaches the same thing in 1 Corinthians 11:23-25:

For I received from the Lord what I also delivered to you, that the Lord Jesus on the night when he was betrayed took bread, and when he had given thanks, he broke it, and said, “This is my body which is for you. Do this in remembrance of me.” In the same way also he took the cup, after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood. Do this, as often as you drink it, in remembrance of me.” (ESV)

Many people often forget about this memorial as well, accept for maybe once a year during Easter weekend. Others may remember with the bread and cup once a month. Many do not recognize it at all.

Paul indicates that we should remember Jesus’ sacrifice as often as we drink, whether it be wine, grape juice, mountain dew, or whatever. Let us remember the blood that was spilled the day He gave the ultimate sacrifice for us. Not just occasionally, but everyday.

Every day should be memorial day.