INTRO: Today is Memorial Day. Started by General John A. Logan in 1868 to remember those who died in our great Civil War, on both sides. It is now a day to honor all who have died in all the wars we have ever had. There are parades held across the USA, and people go to cemeteries and put flowers on the graves. There will be special ceremonies today at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington Cemetery. Today, flags should be flown at half-mast until noon.
Our scripture today describes the building of a memorial at Gilgal, on the Western shore of the Jordan River, to commemorate the miraculous crossing of Israel into the promised land. They set up 12 stones, which were to stand forever. There are some valuable lessons in this story:

I. We need to follow the Lord.

A. Israel followed the Ark (Josh. 3:3).
B. We need to live by walking in Jesus' steps. (WWJD bracelets)
C. We need to find out God's will about marriage, career, school, etc.

II. God's people must have reverence toward the Lord.

A. Israel was commanded to keep its distance (Josh 3:4).
B. God is too holy for us to get too familiar with.
Moses had to remove his shoes at the burning bush.
Those who touched the ark perished (story of David and Uzzah).

III. We must remember, and teach our children to remember the Lord.

A. The 12 stones of remembrance (Joshua 4:1-7).
B. Teach your children (Joshua 4:6).
C. We need regular worship, Sunday School, Christian Schools, and
most of all, parents teaching their children in person, by word and deed.
"This is what the Lord has done for me!"

IV. We are to take our message about God to the world (Joshua 4:24).

A. Jehovah is Lord of all the earth (Joshua 3:11).
B. All the gods of the heathen are just idols (Psalm 96:4-5, 9-10).

CONCL: Follow the Lord. Revere the Lord. Remember the Lord. Preach the Gospel! Amen.