Maybe it is just me but saying HAPPY Veterans Day seems to not quite feel right. On this November 11 I find myself living in a community filled with veterans. Many of the members of my Church also share the common link of having given a portion of their lives to serving in the military. Some are serving now. I grew up in a time when our country was at war and boys just a few years ahead of me were being drafted to serve. I remember vividly my feeling when as a teenager it was revealed that the draft had ended and the military was transitioning to an all-volunteer force.
One of the things that I admire about people who have worn the uniform is how they “become” soldiers. There is a process of training that consistently produces characteristics in these men and women that enables them to function in some of the most stressful situations imaginable. Trained even to be willing to face death if required to complete the objective assigned.
Another very admirable trait shared by so many veterans I have encountered is humility. Make no mistake, they are proud of their service but are often quick to point to the sacrifices of others instead of seeking attention for themselves.
I also appreciate the focus and sacrifice these folks embrace in order for the rest of the society to be able to go about their business in relative peace and tranquility. Additionally, I have found that those who have worn the uniform are often the most loyal when serving within the Church.
Even the Apostle saw valuable characteristics in those who served in the military. He writes in 2 Timothy 2:1-4 – “You then, my son, be strong in the grace that is in Christ Jesus. 2 And the things you have heard me say in the presence of many witnesses entrust to reliable people who will also be qualified to teach others. 3 Join with me in suffering, like a good soldier of Christ Jesus. 4 No one serving as a soldier gets entangled in civilian affairs, but rather tries to please his commanding officer.”
And so today we celebrate those among us who are veterans. I will never understand the road you have walked and that is probably for the best. We regularly pray for these people, especially the ones who are currently serving. We pray for those in leadership within our country especially with respect to veterans both presently serving and those having fulfilled their commitment. We pray that leaders will properly use these human assets wisely and search diligently for ways to solve conflicts without the intervention of the military. We pray for their return to civilian life, especially after having faced conflict. And to all my new Mississippi friends who are serving are have served I say, “thanks”!
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