A Day for Reflection – Sunday, May 27, 1984
As Memorial Day tributes cause us to reflect about those who have passed on, we should remember that all is well with them, that we are experiencing but a brief separation from them, and that the process of life and death has been designed by a loving Father in Heaven.
But even with the assurance that life itself does not end, as we know it, the separation of family and friends through mortal death is often a difficult experience. Consider, though, how magnified and tragic the grief must be for those who fail to understand the full purpose of life and death.
As one spiritual leader said, “The world that is to come after is beyond all comprehension that we have. I think that when we undertake to measure it by the pageantry that we know, we envision scarcely a shadow of the glory of eternity.”1
Life does have purpose and meaning. And although there are many unanswered questions, they should not be a problem for us because of our knowledge of the resurrection.
In a sense, we were born to die. Upon birth, we inherit the seeds of death, but it’s not something we should be fearful about. The length of stay does not matter as long as the time has been profitably spent. And it isn’t the work we do that’s important, but the way we conduct ourselves and the relationship we have with the God who gave us life. On the Judgement Day we won’t be asked about the positions we held or the honors and tributes we received. Only the works of our lives and the true intent of our hearts will be judged.
On Memorial Day, millions of Americans make their way to cemeteries and shrines to pay tribute to friends and loved ones. Surely there are moments of sadness as they recall fond memories and associations, as they remember those individuals who have made their lives richer and more meaningful.
Memorial Day seems to bring two messages: the message of hope, the realization that life does not end with death but continues beyond the grave and the message of encouragement to make the most of each relationship each day, to strengthen them, to give and receive from friends and loved ones while we are yet together in this life.
Perhaps the best thing we can do at this time is to reflect on our own future, whatever our age. Where do we go from here? One day we will follow the same path that has been marked for us by those who have already completed their earthly life. Perhaps reflections on Memorial Day will bring perspective into our own lives and encourage us to reexamine our own priorities.
1 J. Reuben Clark.
______________________________________
May 27, 1984
Broadcast Number 2,858