05/24/2026
This Memorial Day weekend, Americans across our nation pause to remember those who sacrificed their lives in service to others and in defense of freedom. On Thursday, May 21, 2026, communities across our nation began the solemn tradition of placing flags beside the graves of fallen veterans, preparing our hearts for this sacred weekend of remembrance. In many of these ceremonies, “Taps” will quietly echo across cemeteries and memorial grounds. Though countless Americans recognize its haunting melody, many have never fully considered the history or meaning behind the song—a final farewell honoring those who faithfully served and sacrificed. Like the notes of “Taps,” Memorial Day calls us not only to remember the fallen, but also to reflect more deeply upon the cost of freedom, the brevity of life, and the eternal hope found only in Christ.
On Thursday, I had the privilege of participating in the annual placement of flags on the graves of veterans alongside the Tipton County American Legion Post 67. As we walked through the cemetery, I was accompanied by a young Boatswain’s Mate First Class who also serves as a Navy chaplain recruiter. Together, we carefully placed flags beside each grave and rendered hand salutes in honor of those who served before us.
Most of the graves were marked with crosses, reminders of both sacrifice and faith. Yet one section of the cemetery faced east toward Mecca, and one soldier’s tombstone bore the symbol of a crescent moon. We rendered the same honors to our fellow service member with dignity and respect, but I quietly reflected on something I had never encountered in all my years of placing flags for Memorial Day. Though this man fought for the freedoms we cherish as Americans, I found myself wondering about the eternal hope in which he trusted.
In Islamic belief, paradise is often described as Jannah—a place of peace, reward, beauty, and rest prepared for those who faithfully submit themselves to Allah. Muslims are taught that entrance into paradise comes through obedience to Allah, adherence to the teachings of the Qur’an, good deeds, prayer, repentance, and hope in Allah’s mercy. Yet as I stood there reflecting beside that grave, I was reminded of the profound difference between salvation by human effort and the Gospel of grace found in Jesus Christ. Scripture teaches that eternal life is not attained through works alone, but through faith in the crucified and risen Savior who alone conquered sin and death.
The Tipton County VFW Post 4840 also participated in placing flags upon veterans’ graves this weekend, and today our community gathers for a memorial service at the Tipton County Museum. These moments remind us not only of the cost of liberty, but also of the eternal realities that await every soul beyond the grave.
As I studied Jeremiah 51–52 this week, I was struck by the contrast between earthly kingdoms and the eternal Kingdom of God.
Babylon appeared unstoppable.
Its armies conquered nations.
Its rulers exalted themselves in pride and power.
Jeremiah intentionally connects Babylon back to Babel in Genesis 11, where humanity tried to build a tower reaching into the “heavens.” The Hebrew word is:
Shamayim — the heavens, the skies, and the realm associated with God’s authority and throne.
Babylon represents humanity’s continual attempt to exalt itself above God through pride, power, violence, and self-rule.
Yet Jeremiah declares:
Babylon falls.
Every earthly empire eventually fades.
Every human kingdom built upon pride eventually collapses.
But Scripture reminds us that God remains enthroned above the shamayim forever.
“The Lord has established His throne in the heavens, and His sovereignty rules over all” (Psalm 103:19, NASB).
This Memorial Day weekend reminds us that freedom is costly.
Many brave men and women willingly laid down their lives for others and for the freedoms we enjoy. As a retired Navy Hospital Corpsman and chaplain, I have seen firsthand the sacrifice, courage, grief, and servant-hearted love carried by those who serve.
Yet Memorial Day also points us toward an even greater sacrifice.
Jesus Christ did not ascend in pride like Babylon.
He descended in humility.
Babylon sought power by taking life.
Christ established His Kingdom by giving His life.
Philippians 2 reminds us that Jesus humbled Himself even to death on a cross. Then God highly exalted Him above every name.
Today, the most important question is not simply what nation’s flag we stand beneath, but who sits upon the throne of our hearts.
Babylon says:
“Exalt yourself.”
Jesus says:
“Deny yourself, take up your cross, and follow Me.”
This Memorial Day, may we honor those who sacrificed for earthly freedom while remembering the One who gave His life for eternal freedom.
And may Christ—not pride, fear, politics, or self—remain enthroned above our lives.
— Dr. Brian J. Styer
Author | SBC Endorsed Chaplain | Itinerant Pastor
