A Lesson in Service and Sacrifice
by Tom McGrath
What we remember-and honor-on Memorial Day is heroic sacrifice. We acknowledge those who nobly gave of themse lves, even unto death, for a purpose they believed was greater than themselves. Since the days just following the end of the Civil War, Americans have gathered in late May to honor those who died in military service to their country. In the spirit of the day, we can also recall, honor, and pray for all those we know who have lived lives of service and sacrifice for the good of others.
One definition of sacrifice is "the destruction or surrender of someth ing for the sake of something else." Though suffering is always a part of sacrifice to some extent, seeking suffering for its own sake is not sacrifice. Sacrifice implies giving up one good for a higher good. For example, a child gives up a day of play to visit an ailing grandpa rent, or a parent sacrifices watching a favorite television program to help a child who is struggling with homework. Life in the family is full of opportunities for service and sacrifice.
Jesus: the perfect example of sacrifice
What counts in this definition is the phrase "for the sake of something else." Is that "something else" worthy of the sacrifice we make? True sacrifice is always at the service of life. We learn this from Jesus, who made the ultimate sacrifice and remained faithful through his Passion, death, and Resurrection. Jesus' greater purpose for this sacrifice was our well-being-that we might have life and have it abundantly.