Before I was ordained as a chaplain, I was a fighter pilot in the Air Force.
Several of my assignments took me to Vietnam. Not all the men I went over with came home. Some were prisoners of war. Others laid down their lives for their friends.
Veterans Day is a day to reflect on the sacrifices of the thousands of soldiers, sailors, marines and airmen who gave their all. It is also a day to say thanks to those who served or are serving.
The Gospel of John tells us: “Greater love has no one than this, than to lay down one’s life for his friends” (John 15:13, NKJV).
God has gifted us all with many things, including the very practical areas of our time, talent and treasure. And we are surrounded by opportunities. I really do not think God is calling on each of us to just give up our lives—I think He is calling on us to give more than that. I think He is calling us to invest some of our time, talent and treasure in the lives of veterans we can touch.
This Veterans Day, let’s focus on passing on some of the great love God has bestowed on us to those in need in our communities, especially those who serve and sacrifice.
Prayer + Reflection
- Ask God for His protection, provision and care over those who serve today, and pray for godly leadership to be in our military and government.
- Pray for families you know with a loved one deployed. Ask the Lord to give you opportunities to support those who serve in your community.
- Ask the Lord to reveal some tangible ways your congregation can support veterans right in your congregation.
- Let’s continue to pray for all who have been elected to lead for the common good, for the sake of all people, especially the poor and disenfranchised, and not personal interest or preference.
Share your thoughts. See comments below, and add your own.
