As we conclude Passover and begin the celebration of Easter, it is appropriate to recall that on this date, April 14th, Abraham Lincoln was assassinated 152 years ago. His death happened a mere six days after General Lee surrendered his army at the Appomattox Courthouse in Virginia to General Grant – bringing the American Civil War to an end.
Over 625,000 Americans perished in that conflict, roughly a full 2% of the American population, all while Abraham Lincoln led.
Led a divided country.
Led a divided union.
Led a divided political party.
Led in a divided world.
Truly, this was public service at his finest. Lincoln’s leadership planted gardens which he would never see bloom in his lifetime.
While we celebrate his birth on President’s Day along with other presidents, it is also right to recall the sacrifice of this one man on this day.
So as we celebrate the religious faiths and their ability to sustain and inspire us through our most difficult times, let us also remember there is nobility in public service and remember those who make us all the better because of their sacrifice.
Thanks be to God for them.